Why Are Cockroaches Infesting My Clean House?
You might be surprised, but cockroaches don’t just infest dirty homes. While it’s true that messy places offer more hiding spots and food for them, we’ve seen roaches in all kinds of clean homes—places with housekeepers, penthouses, you name it. The thing is, cockroaches only need three things to survive: a place to hide, moisture, and something to eat. And unfortunately, even the cleanest homes have those!
Roaches are resourceful. They can hide anywhere—inside cabinets, refrigerators, and even appliances. As for water, they can find it in sinks, condensation near your fridge, or even the tiny amount left in sink traps. They’re also not picky eaters. Things like glue, crumbs, leather, and even feathers can keep them alive. Different species have different habits too. For example, brown-banded cockroaches don’t need much water and can live in places like bedroom furniture, while American cockroaches can wander far from water but still need it to survive.
Cockroaches can sneak in several ways. Some live in sewer lines and might come through drains, especially if they’re not used often and the water evaporates, leaving the trap dry. This is why it’s important to keep those drains wet—whether it’s sinks, showers, or toilets. You can even add a little mineral oil to slow down water evaporation in rarely used drains.
Another way they get in is through items brought into the home. Takeout from infested restaurants, antiques, rental equipment, or even moving vans can all be culprits. If you live in an apartment or townhouse, they can come from a neighbor’s place, especially during warmer months.
Roaches can hitch a ride on almost anything—like takeout food, your kid’s stuff from camp or college, or even furniture. In attached homes, they can travel through shared walls, using plumbing and electrical chases to move between units. And if there are gaps under your doors, they can walk right in!
Roaches usually come out at night, so if you’re seeing them during the day, it could be a sign of a larger infestation. Since cockroaches reproduce quickly and can survive on so little, it’s best to contact a professional to handle the problem. DIY solutions can sometimes make things worse, as over-the-counter products may not work well due to resistance or roaches simply avoiding certain baits. “Bug bombs” can also push them deeper into your home, making it harder to get rid of them later.
If you really want to resolve your cockroach problem, the best option is to call Clark’s Termite & Pest Control. We know the best Carolina Cockroach control methods can can get rid of them as quickly as possible.