When it comes to pest control, most people wouldn’t think to go about it in a natural way. Being that the general response is usually to grab the closest thing around and promptly squash the perpetrating pest, cockroaches certainly don’t stand a chance at being spared by a “gentler” or more natural cockroach control method. But getting rid of them organically can work just as effectively while remaining healthier and safer to implement.
Natural Baits
There are lots of chemicals and materials that can kill cockroaches, but strategic mixing and matching for the right concoction are what make them effective. In any type of homemade cockroach bait, though, boric acid should be the key ingredient. Mix it with flour, sugar, chopped onion, and a little bit of shortening to make cockroach “balls” that can be placed sans odor or complicated mess anywhere around the house. Once the cockroaches consume a portion of the bait, it will eventually lead it back to the pack where it will kill off the entire colony.
Diatomaceous Earth
Made from finely ground diatoms, diatomaceous earth looks more like sand to us but they appear like small shards of glass to cockroaches. Once spread out over a certain area, cockroaches will experience piercing and poking through their exoskeleton that will inevitably kill them. Be sure to get food-grade diatomaceous earth that is dry, bagged, and certified to be free of 2% or less silica content.
House Geckos
Using other bugs or small animals to get rid of pests is nothing new, but the idea of unleashing geckos around the home doesn’t appeal to most homeowners. Nevertheless, people who have been around geckos know that they are mostly harmless and remain out of sight. They make the perfect predators that know how to get rid of cockroaches naturally, making them a great form of cockroach control that is cheap and mess-free.
House geckos can be purchased at most local pet stores or online with expedited shipping. Most homes do not require more than 2 or 3 to do the job. Homeowners have claimed to see a significant reduction in the number of cockroaches scurrying around over the course of a week.
If these methods don’t work, or if you’re not sure which one is the best to tackle your home with, contact a local pest exterminator who can offer more advice on how to get rid of cockroaches naturally. They can also assist you in installing these barriers and treatments so that you aren’t left to do it on your own.