Hattiesburg's Ultimate Cockroach Prevention Guide

While cockroaches are disgustingly disturbing creatures with their spiny legs and large antennae, they are more than just a nuisance pest. They can be dangerous because they can carry and spread germs and diseases that can make people sick. They can easily contaminate food sources because they tend to live in areas of the home where food is prepared or stored such as kitchens and pantries.
 
In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, there are four kinds of cockroaches that are common house invaders: German, American, smoky brown, and Oriental.
 
Knowing what these four different types of roaches look like can help you identify them if they get inside your home.

• German cockroaches are small and have two black stripes that run down their head horizontally and are usually a light brown or tan color.
• American cockroaches are the largest species and are usually a brownish-red color. They have a figure-eight pattern in yellow behind their heads.
  The smoky brown cockroach is shiny and is usually black or mahogany. They have wings that are longer than their bodies.
• Oriental cockroaches are a red-brown color and are more commonly found outdoors.

How To Keep Cockroaches Out

The best way to prevent cockroaches from getting into your home is to keep your house very clean. Cockroaches are repelled by the smell of a clean home, so regularly vacuuming, mopping, sanitizing, decluttering, etc. can help keep them out. They are also attracted to moisture and humidity, so doing things to reduce water sources and humidity in your house can help.

Some prevention tips include:

• Repairing any leaky pipes or faucets.
• Using dehumidifiers.
• Repairing holes in windows and screens.
• Using weather stripping around doors and windows.
• Cleaning up clutter and regularly deep cleaning.

No Hole Is Too Small

Because cockroaches are small, they can get into your home through many access points. They may sneak in through small spaces around doors and windows, or through tiny holes in your foundation or outer walls. It only takes an opening 1/16th of an inch wide to let cockroaches in. They can also get inside through hitching a ride on furniture or cardboard boxes. 
 
Cockroaches are adept at hiding, and they tend to hide in areas of your home that are humid and dark. They might also make homes in your yard under mulch, in gardens, or in trash cans.

How To Get Rid of An Infestation

Even if you keep your house spotless and try to prevent cockroaches, they could still make their way inside. It’s not possible to completely prevent them, so the best thing to do if you notice an infestation is to contact the pest control professionals at Havard Pest Control. We will get rid of any cockroaches in your home safely and efficiently. Reach out to us today to learn more.