Why Roaches Are Hard to Spot

Roaches are nocturnal, meaning they’re most active at night. They often stay hidden during the day in dark, moist areas like behind appliances, under sinks, and inside walls. Because of this, you may not actually see a live roach right away, even if there’s a serious infestation.

7 Common Signs of a Roach Infestation

Seeing Live Roaches

If you spot a live roach during the day, it could mean the infestation is large enough to push them out of hiding. Pay special attention to kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.

Droppings

Roach droppings look like black pepper, coffee grounds, or tiny specks. In the case of larger species like American cockroaches, the droppings resemble small pellets. Check…

• Cabinet corners

• Behind the refrigerator

• Under the sink

• Along baseboards

Smear Marks

In damp areas, roaches may leave behind smear marks instead of solid droppings. These appear as irregular brown streaks on walls or surfaces.

Unpleasant Odor

A strong, musty odor is a common sign of a large infestation. Roaches produce an oily, pungent smell that becomes more noticeable as their numbers grow.

Egg Casings (Oothecae)

Roaches lay their eggs in brown, capsule-like cases called oothecae, which can contain dozens of eggs. You might find these near…

• Pantry shelves

• Behind furniture

• Inside drawers or cupboards

Shed Skins

Roaches shed their exoskeletons numerous times as they grow. Finding these papery skins in hidden areas is another sign that roaches are present and breeding.

Damage to Food or Packaging

Roaches will chew through cardboard, paper, and even thin plastic to reach food. If you notice torn packaging or nibbled food, they could be the culprits.

Where to Look for Roaches

Roaches prefer warm, dark, & moist environments. Check these common hiding spots…

• Behind the refrigerator or stove

• Under the kitchen and bathroom sinks

• In cracks, crevices, and wall voids

• Inside cabinets and pantry corners

• Behind baseboards and electrical outlets

Use a flashlight to inspect these areas thoroughly, especially at night when roaches are more likely to be active.