Strong Scents

Cockroaches have highly sensitive antennae that help them detect smells. Strong, pungent odors can overwhelm their senses, making them avoid areas where these smells are present.

Effective scents…

• Citrus – Cockroaches hate the smell of lemons, oranges, or other citrus fruits. You can use citrus-scented cleaners or essential oils to keep them away.

• Lavender – The smell of lavender is another natural roach repellent. Roaches dislike the fragrance, and it can also make your home smell pleasant.

• Peppermint – Roaches also avoid peppermint oil, which can be used as a natural repellent. Mixing peppermint oil with water and spraying it around your home can keep roaches away.

Boric Acid

Boric acid is a natural substance that cockroaches find toxic. While it doesn’t have a strong smell, its powdered form can be sprinkled in areas where roaches are active. When roaches come in contact with it, they ingest it while grooming, & it eventually kills them.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is another natural substance that cockroaches hate. It works by dehydrating & damaging their exoskeletons. Roaches that come in contact with DE will eventually die from dehydration.

Cucumbers

Believe it or not, cockroaches hate cucumbers! They find the scent of cucumbers, particularly bitter cucumber varieties, very off-putting. Placing cucumber slices in areas where you’ve seen roaches can help repel them. This isn’t a long-term solution.

Essential Oils

Essential oils that are known to repel cockroaches, including…

• Tea tree oil

• Eucalyptus oil

• Rosemary oil

• Cedarwood oil

These oils can be mixed with water and sprayed around the house to deter roaches naturally.

Soap and Water

Roaches despise soap & water because the mixture interferes with their ability to breathe. A simple solution of soap and water sprayed directly on them can suffocate the cockroaches by blocking their spiracles (breathing holes).

Cockroaches are highly adaptable creatures, but they do have their weaknesses. By using these natural repellents, you can help make your home less inviting to them. If you have a serious infestation, it’s always best to seek professional pest control assistance.