3. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It’s harmless to humans and pets but lethal to roaches. When they crawl over the powder, it damages their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Ingredients:
- Food-grade diatomaceous earth
Instructions:
- Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth in areas where roaches travel, such as cracks, crevices, and along baseboards.
- Leave it undisturbed for several days and reapply as necessary.
Why it works: Diatomaceous earth is abrasive to insects, cutting through their protective outer layer and leading to dehydration.
4. Essential Oil Spray
Certain essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus are known to repel roaches due to their strong scents. While this method may not kill them outright, it can help deter roaches from entering your home in the first place.
Ingredients:
- 10-15 drops peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dish soap (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the essential oil and water in a spray bottle.
- Add dish soap if you want the spray to have some sticking power.
- Spray in areas where you’ve noticed roaches or where you think they might enter, such as windowsills and doorways.
Why it works: The strong scent of essential oils like peppermint overwhelms the roaches’ senses and repels them. This solution is great for prevention.