What to do if you find a cockroach in your home

No one wants a cockroach in their home. That's a given. Cockroaches can spread disease, contaminate food, and even damage your home's structure. It seems like it is impossible to kill cockroaches. But, don't worry. If you find a cockroach in your Waldorf, MD home, you still have a lot of options.

This article lays out how to spot cockroaches in your home, and what to do if you see their signs. And, remember, you can always contact Barefoot Pest Control with questions or to receive a free inspection and quote.

Signs of cockroaches

Before you learn how to deal with finding a cockroach in your Waldorf home, you need to know what signs this annoying pest leaves behind.

• Seeing a cockroach: Actually seeing a cockroach is rare. But, if you do, then you know that you have a serious cockroach problem. Cockroaches can be found in dark, damp locations like under the sink or in dark cabinets.
• You may not see a cockroach in their likely hangouts, but you may definitely see their droppings or skins. Cockroach droppings are small, dark, and circular. Look for piles of droppings or shed skins in corners, basements, or your kitchen cabinets.
• If you have a lot of cockroaches in your home, it will likely have a strong, musty odor. Yes, a musty odor can be caused by things other than cockroaches. However, if your house has an unexplained smell, you may want to call in cockroach extermination professionals.
• Finally, a gross sign. Cockroaches leave grease marks on walls as they rub against them. So, if you think you might have a cockroach problem, check the bottom of your walls and baseboards for long, greasy streaks.

What to do if you find a cockroach

Okay, now that you know you have a cockroach problem, you don't have to panic. Cockroaches may be hard to kill, but with the right strategy, you can accomplish that feat. Follow these tips to make cockroaches get out and stay out of your Waldorf home.

1. Consider purchasing cockroach traps or poison. Many brands now offer products where the cockroaches take the poison back to their nest, so no spraying is required. These over-the-counter products will not be as effective as a professional pest control company, but they are a good first step.
2. Make sure your kitchen and all areas of your home are clean and free of food and grease.
3. Fix any leaky pipes and other water sources in your home. Cockroaches need water to live just like humans.
4. Contact Barefoot Pest Control. We are your Waldorf, MD area cockroach extermination experts. Plus, if you call before 2 p.m., we will be at your home within four hours. Our technicians are highly trained and vetted, and they are up-to-date on the most recent cockroach extermination techniques.

So, if you have a cockroach problem, don't delay. Contact Barefoot Pest Control today, and you will never have to deal with finding a cockroach in your home again.