Why Cockroaches Are So Hard to Eliminate: And What Actually Works

300 million years. That’s how long cockroaches have been crawling the planet. They’ve survived shifting climates, mass extinctions, and even the dinosaurs. So it’s no surprise they can be tough to get out of a home. But what makes these pests so resilient? And what really works to keep them out?

Let’s unpack the secrets of these unwelcome invaders and why, even with all their survival skills, they’re no match for the pros at Ford’s Hometown Services in Worcester, MA.

What Makes Cockroaches So Hard to Kill?

Here are the five top reasons cockroaches are such persistent invaders:

1. Speed and survival skills: Many species can run up to three miles per hour and survive underwater for up to 40 minutes.
2. They’ll eat almost anything: From crumbs to glue, cockroaches are not picky. They can even live without food for an entire month, making even a clean home vulnerable.
3. Adaptability: These pests thrive wherever there’s food, moisture, and shelter, even in surprisingly tidy homes. Plus, they’ve evolved over the centuries, making them more resistant to many common pesticides.
4. Tough exoskeletons: Their hard shells and flexible joints let them squeeze into tight spaces and survive forces that would crush other bugs.
5. Rapid reproduction: Depending on the species, a single female cockroach can lay around 128 eggs in her lifetime. Some cockroaches can go from egg to adult in under 2 months, quickly turning a small problem into a full-blown infestation.

Cockroach Prevention Tips for Homeowners

Cockroaches are one of the most common urban pests, so a little prevention goes a long way. Keeping your home clean and sealed can make all the difference, especially if you live in an apartment or multi-family building where your neighbors’ pests can sometimes sneak in.

Here are some simple steps to keep cockroaches out:

• Store food in sealed containers and don’t leave crumbs or open packages out.
• Repair dripping faucets or under-sink leaks quickly, as cockroaches love moisture.
• Reduce clutter to eliminate places for cockroaches to hide.
• Seal cracks and gaps, as this is how cockroaches can travel from neighboring apartments
• Check for cockroaches before bringing in containers from stores or restaurants

Following these steps can make a big difference, but if you suspect you already have cockroaches, it will take more than preventive measures to get rid of the problem.

What To Do If You See A Cockroach

Cockroaches aren’t just creepy; they are a real health concern. Their skin sheddings, droppings, and body parts can trigger allergy and asthma attacks, especially in children. Some species can even carry nearly 33 different types of bacteria, spreading germs around your kitchen and home.

That’s why spotting one in your home is a signal to act fast. But getting rid of them isn’t always easy. DIY attempts often fail, and for good reason: cockroaches are built to survive.

If you see a cockroach, the smartest move is to call a professional. Licensed pest control experts like Ford’s Hometown Services provide targeted, effective cockroach treatments with lasting results.