Cockroaches love kitchens because of food residue. Wipe down all surfaces, clean behind appliances, and don’t forget the grease buildup on your stove hood. Pay special attention to areas under the refrigerator and dishwasher where crumbs accumulate.

• Clean behind and under the refrigerator monthly
• Degrease the stovetop and hood regularly
• Empty and clean kitchen cabinets every 3 months
• Never leave dirty dishes overnight
• Store food in sealed airtight containers

Cockroach allergens settle deep into carpets, upholstery, and fabric surfaces. A vacuum with a HEPA filter captures these microscopic particles instead of spreading them back into the air. Standard vacuums can actually make allergen levels worse.

• Vacuum at least twice a week in affected areas
• Pay special attention to bedrooms and living areas
• Use HEPA-rated vacuum bags and replace regularly
• Vacuum furniture, curtains, and baseboards
• Consider a HEPA air purifier for heavily affected rooms

Bedding, curtains, and upholstered items can harbor cockroach allergens for months. Washing in hot water (at least 130°F) kills allergens effectively. If items can’t be washed, place them in a hot dryer for 30 minutes.

• Wash all bedding weekly in hot water
• Wash curtains and drapes monthly
• Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers
• Dry clean or steam clean upholstered furniture
• Wash stuffed animals and soft toys regularly

Prevention is the best cure. Cockroaches can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/16 of an inch — that’s thinner than a dime. Sealing entry points stops new cockroaches from bringing fresh allergens into your home.

• Seal cracks around pipes under sinks with caulk
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors
• Seal gaps around utility lines entering the home
• Repair damaged window screens
• Check and seal gaps around baseboards and crown molding

DIY methods can reduce cockroach populations temporarily, but complete allergen elimination requires professional treatment. Store-bought sprays often scatter cockroaches deeper into walls — spreading allergens further through your home.

At Matar Pest Control, our technicians use EPA-approved treatments that eliminate cockroaches at the source — including hidden colonies inside walls, under appliances, and in crawl spaces that DIY products can’t reach.

• Professional gel baiting targets cockroaches where they hide
• Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) prevent eggs from hatching
• Post-treatment inspection confirms complete elimination
• Ongoing prevention plans keep your home cockroach-free year-round