Cockroaches are adaptable creatures, that have been happily scavenging up debris since prehistoric times. Although there are pesticides that will successfully kill them, those chemicals are also toxic to humans. This guide suggests some alternatives to toxic chemicals, outlining how to get rid of cockroaches organically.

If you see one roach in your home, you probably already share your living quarters with thousands. Before resorting to dangerous poisons, seal up your house, remove all potential food sources, and use organic methods to eradicate the roaches.

(Creative Commons photo by Michael Cote)

• Roaches are sneaky. They don't ring the bell and enter through the front door. They look for small cracks and crevices in the foundation and slip in under the cover of darkness.

1. Seal up all cracks in the foundation with caulk.
2. Spread a barrier of diatomaceous earth around the foundation. This organic product acts as a dessicant, causing roaches to shrivel up and die before they can pay you a visit.
3. Catnip, bay leaves, and garlic power all repel roaches. Scatter some behind baseboards, so if the roaches make it through the other barriers, they'll be repelled before entering your living areas.

• Roaches are scavengers, feeding on leftover food. To discourage them from viewing your home as a bed and breakfast, you need to make sure they can't find food or drink.

1. Fix leaky pipes and dripping faucets.
2. Clean ruthlessly, making sure you vacuum all cabinet corners where crumbs can accumulate.
3. Wipe up spills promptly.
4. Invest in air tight plastic containers and glass jars, so roaches can't help themselves to food in your pantry.

• There are organic methods you can use to kill roaches without harming people or pets.

1. Roaches can get caught in sticky glue traps, commonly sold for mice. Scatter them around areas where you've seen a roach or two.
2. Boric acid (borax) is toxic to roaches, but generally harmless to humans and pets.
3. Spread diatomaceous earth around baseboards and other spots that roaches may use as entry ways.
4. Keep a bottle of soapy water on hand and squirt the roaches when they appear.

• Introduction
• Step 1: Keep Roaches Out of Your House
• Step 2: Don't Feed the Cockroaches
• Step 3: Eliminate Roaches Organically