Why cockroaches move in

Cockroaches are looking for three things: food, water and a warm place to hide. A kitchen offers all three. Crumbs behind the toaster, a leaking tap and the warm gap behind the fridge are enough for a small group to settle in and breed.

In Wagga Wagga, warm summers speed this up. Cockroaches also arrive in grocery boxes, bags, second-hand appliances and through gaps around pipes and drains.

What to do straight away

Seal food in hard containers, empty bins daily and wipe benches before bed. Fix leaks and dry sinks overnight. Clear cardboard and clutter from under sinks and behind appliances, because that is where they hide.

Avoid heavy spraying of the open areas. Roaches that are sprayed without a plan often retreat into walls and appliances, which makes the problem harder to reach.

Know which cockroach you have

Small, light brown cockroaches with two stripes behind the head are usually German cockroaches, which breed fast indoors. Larger brown or reddish ones are often outdoor species that wander inside. The species decides where we treat, so identification is the first step of any cockroach treatment.

When to call a professional

If you see roaches in daylight, find them in several rooms, or the problem returns within weeks, there is usually a hidden population. A professional inspects, finds the harbourage areas and treats the cracks and voids they use, then advises on the housekeeping changes that stop them coming back.

Stain Busters guarantees all work and uses less chemical than many providers. Call 02 6931 2755 or request a free quote.