THE cockroaches are insects that often invade our homes and apartments, causing a real nightmare for many households. They are not only disgusting, but can also carry diseases. Faced with these pests, it is normal to adopt a reflex: want to crush them. But did you know that crushing cockroaches in your home isn’t the best way to get rid of them? Here’s why.
Cockroach pheromones: a warning signal for their fellow cockroaches
Cockroaches secrete pheromones, chemicals that allow them to communicate with each other. These pheromones play different roles, such as attracting a sexual partner or indicating a place to feed. However, when a cockroach is crushed, it also releases alarm pheromones. These are used to alert other cockroaches of danger.
A call for rapid reproduction
When a cockroach detects alarm pheromones, it can trigger rapid breeding behavior. Indeed, if a danger is perceived, cockroaches tend to reproduce more quickly in order to compensate for the loss of members of their colony. Thus, by crushing a cockroach, we risk in the end favoring the proliferation of these insects.
The dispersal of eggs and bacteria
Cockroaches carry many eggs and bacteria, which can be spread when crushed. By crushing a cockroach, you therefore risk spreading its eggs in your home, thus being able to give birth to new individuals. Moreover, bacteria on the cockroach’s body can be transferred to surfaces with which it came into contact during its crash. Thus, you can unwittingly spread potentially pathogenic germs and bacteria to you and your family.
A serious hygiene problem
In addition to spreading eggs and bacteria, crushing a cockroach can also pose a hygiene problem. In effect, cockroach corpses can attract other insects such as ants or the flies, which will feed on these remains. This can then create a veritable food chain in your home, with all the consequences that this entails in terms of cleanliness and hygiene.
Alternative solutions to fight against cockroaches
Now that we’ve seen why squashing cockroaches isn’t recommended, it’s time to consider alternative methods of eliminating them. Here are some suggestions:
- Use cockroach traps, which allow you to capture them without crushing them. You can also make your own using plastic bottles and bait (eg honey mixed with flour).
- Apply specific insecticides: there are chemicals designed to kill cockroaches without crushing them. However, be sure to follow the instructions for use and take the necessary precautions to protect your health and that of your pets.
- Call a professional: if the infestation is significant or you cannot get rid of the cockroaches despite your efforts, it may be wise to call in a company specializing in pest control. This will be able to set up a treatment adapted to your situation.
Prevention, the key to a cockroach-free home
Finally, to prevent cockroaches from returning, it is essential to put in place preventive measures. Here are a few tips :
- Keep your home clean and tidy. Cockroaches are attracted to food and water, so be sure to clean surfaces regularly and don’t leave food scraps lying around.
- Eliminate sources of moisture, as cockroaches need water to survive. Fix leaks, ventilate damp rooms and mop up standing water.
- Seal cracks and holes that could serve as entry points for cockroaches. Use caulk, expanding foam or even stainless steel plugs to fill these gaps.
- Regularly maintain the drains, as they can be a haven for cockroaches. Remember to use suitable unblocking products and do not hesitate to call on a professional if necessary.
By applying these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of cockroach infestation in your home and avoid having to resort to less effective elimination methods, such as crushing them.
