Why Cockroaches Are a Common Concern in Southern California Homes
It’s every homeowner’s nightmare—you flick on the kitchen light late at night and see a cockroach dart across the counter. Whether it’s one or a dozen, a cockroach sighting is unsettling and unsanitary. These resilient pests are common in Anaheim and throughout Orange County, where the warm climate offers a perfect breeding ground.
At Southwood Pest Control, we’ve been helping residents handle pest issues for over 50 years. While chemical treatments are often the go-to solution, many homeowners today are looking for natural, eco-friendly alternatives. Whether you’re sensitive to chemicals, have pets and kids at home, or simply want to avoid harsh treatments, there are several natural methods that can help keep cockroaches away.
Let’s explore the most effective natural cockroach control strategies—and when it’s time to bring in the professionals.
Understanding Cockroach Behavior
What Attracts Cockroaches?
Cockroaches are drawn to:
- Food crumbs and spills
- Leaky faucets and standing water
- Warm, humid environments
- Cluttered areas with cardboard or paper
They typically hide during the day and become active at night. They often enter homes through small cracks, vents, or gaps around windows and doors.
Common Species in Southern California
- German cockroaches (most common indoors)
- American cockroaches (larger and often found in basements or garages)
- Oriental cockroaches (prefer damp, cool areas like under sinks or in drains)
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Cockroaches
1. Keep Your Home Clean
A clean home is your first line of defense. This includes:
- Wiping down counters daily
- Sweeping and mopping floors regularly
- Washing dishes promptly
- Storing food in sealed containers
- Emptying the trash frequently
Even a few crumbs can attract cockroaches, so consistency is key.
2. Seal Entry Points
Cockroaches can enter through the smallest of spaces. Inspect your home for:
- Gaps around doors and windows
- Cracks in walls and baseboards
- Holes near plumbing or utility lines
Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these entry points.
3. Use Natural Repellents
Several natural substances repel cockroaches due to their strong scent or dehydrating effects:
- Bay leaves: Scatter them in cabinets and under sinks
- Peppermint oil: Mix with water and spray around baseboards and entry points
- Cucumber slices: Place them in problem areas as a short-term deterrent
- Cedar: Use cedarwood blocks in pantries or closets
These options won’t kill roaches but may help deter them from settling in.
4. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
This fine powder is made from fossilized algae and is safe for humans and pets (when food-grade). Sprinkle it in areas where you’ve seen roach activity:
- Under appliances
- Along baseboards
- Inside cabinets
The powder dehydrates the cockroach’s exoskeleton and eventually kills it. Be patient—results can take several days to a week.
5. Baking Soda and Sugar Trap
Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar and place them in shallow containers around your home. The sugar attracts the cockroaches, while the baking soda reacts with their digestive system and kills them.
Be sure to place these in areas where pets can’t reach them.
6. Boric Acid (With Caution)
Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is toxic to cockroaches. You can:
- Mix it with powdered sugar
- Sprinkle it lightly under refrigerators, sinks, and stoves
Note: While natural, boric acid can still be harmful if ingested by pets or children, so use with caution.
7. Soap and Water Spray
Cockroaches breathe through their skin. A simple spray made of dish soap and water can suffocate them on contact. Use this method for direct kills when you see a roach.
Why Natural Methods Aren’t Always Enough
Limitations of DIY Natural Remedies
While natural methods are great for prevention and minor infestations, they often fall short when facing a significant or persistent problem. Cockroaches reproduce rapidly—one female German cockroach can produce hundreds of offspring in her lifetime.
Many natural remedies don’t reach the hidden nests or address the root of the infestation. If you continue to see roaches despite your best efforts, it may be time to call in a professional.
Benefits of Professional Cockroach Control
When you choose Southwood Pest Control, you’re choosing:
- Over 50 years of local experience
- Eco-friendly and low-toxicity treatment options
- Customized treatment plans based on your home’s layout
- Thorough inspections and identification of nesting sites
- Follow-up services to ensure the infestation is eliminated
We use integrated pest management (IPM) practices that combine sanitation, exclusion, and targeted treatment for long-lasting results.
When to Call Southwood Pest Control
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to give us a call:
- Cockroaches seen during the day (a sign of a severe infestation)
- Egg cases or shed skins around your home
- An oily or musty odor in your kitchen or bathroom
- Droppings that resemble black pepper or coffee grounds
We offer free inspections and service guarantees, so you have nothing to lose and peace of mind to gain.
You Can Fight Cockroaches Naturally—With Help When You Need It
Natural cockroach control is an excellent option for prevention and small-scale infestations. With a combination of cleanliness, sealing entry points, and natural deterrents, you can make your home far less welcoming to these persistent pests.
But if your efforts aren’t working—or if you just want a professional eye on the situation—Southwood Pest Control is here to help. We’ve helped thousands of Orange County homeowners get rid of cockroaches and restore peace in their kitchens and bathrooms.
Call us today at (800) 780-7773 or visit our website to schedule your free inspection. Let’s kick cockroaches to the curb; naturally and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Will natural cockroach repellents eliminate an infestation completely?
No. Natural repellents may help deter cockroaches, but they are usually ineffective against large or well-established infestations. Professional treatment is often needed for complete elimination. - Is diatomaceous earth safe to use around food and pets?
Yes, if you use food-grade diatomaceous earth. Always apply it in thin layers and avoid inhaling the dust. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children. - How long do natural methods take to show results?
It depends on the method and severity of the infestation. Some remedies, like diatomaceous earth or baking soda traps, may take several days to a week to work.
