Introduction
Cockroaches are one of the most stubborn and unsanitary pests found in homes. They can spread bacteria, trigger allergies, and contaminate food. While commercial sprays may seem like the fastest solution, they often contain toxic ingredients. In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn how to get rid of cockroaches naturally using safe, affordable, and eco-friendly methods that really work.
Bonus: These natural remedies are also effective against ants, silverfish, and houseflies.
Why Cockroaches Are Dangerous
- They carry salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria.
- Roach droppings can trigger asthma and allergies.
- They contaminate food, utensils, and surfaces.
- They breed quickly and are hard to eliminate once established.
Where Cockroaches Hide in Your Home
- Under kitchen sinks and behind appliances
- Inside bathroom cabinets and drains
- Cracks in walls and baseboards
- Inside garbage bins and cardboard boxes
- Inside washing machine areas or under rugs
Signs You Have a Roach Problem
- Seeing live roaches, especially at night
- Black droppings or smear marks in corners
- Musty, oily odor from large infestations
- Egg cases (oothecae) in cabinets or closets
- Shedded roach skins in hidden areas
Best Natural Ways to Get Rid of Cockroaches
1. Boric Acid and Sugar Trap
- Mix 3 parts boric acid with 1 part sugar.
- Place in bottle caps or shallow trays.
- Set traps behind the fridge, under the sink, and in dark corners.
Boric acid is toxic to roaches but low-risk to humans if handled carefully.
2. Baking Soda and Onion Paste
- Dice one onion and mix with 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
- Place small amounts on foil or paper near roach hotspots.
Roaches ingest the mix, which expands in their stomach and kills them.
3. Bay Leaves or Cucumber Slices
- Place dried bay leaves in cabinets, drawers, and pantry areas.
- Use cucumber slices where you’ve seen activity.
Roaches hate the smell and stay away.
4. Lemon Juice Cleaner
- Mix lemon juice with water and use it to mop the floor and clean surfaces.
The acidity repels cockroaches and sanitizes at the same time.
5. Essential Oils Spray
- Mix 10 drops peppermint or eucalyptus oil with 1 cup of water.
- Spray baseboards, under sinks, and behind furniture.
Natural oils confuse roaches’ sense of smell and block scent trails.
Additional Natural Repellents
- Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade) – sprinkle behind cabinets
- Coffee Grounds – place in shallow bowls with water as bait
- Cedarwood Shavings – line closets and under rugs
How to Prevent Future Roach Infestations
✅ Seal cracks around doors, windows, and plumbing
✅ Keep kitchen and bathroom areas dry and clean
✅ Store food in airtight containers
✅ Take out trash daily and clean bins
✅ Avoid leaving dirty dishes overnight
✅ Vacuum regularly and wipe down surfaces
FAQs
Q1: Are these remedies safe for kids and pets?
A: Most natural methods are safe, but boric acid should be kept away from pets and children.
Q2: How long do natural methods take to work?
A: Visible results usually appear within 2–5 days depending on the method.
Q3: Can I use multiple remedies at once?
A: Yes—combining traps, repellents, and cleaning boosts effectiveness.
Q4: Will roaches come back?
A: If sanitation and sealing aren’t maintained, they can return. Use monthly maintenance to stay roach-free.
