What Kills Adult Roaches Effectively?

Gel Baits

Roaches consume the poison and take it back to their nest, sharing it with others. This helps kill the entire colony over time.

Best for – Targeting active infestations
Popular brands – Advion, Combat, Maxforce

Insecticide Sprays

Contact sprays can kill roaches on the spot, while residual sprays stay effective on surfaces for weeks.

Best for – Quick knockdown and residual control
Tip – Avoid using spray near bait, it can deter roaches from feeding.

Sticky Traps

These don’t kill large populations but help monitor activity and reduce numbers.

Best for – Low-traffic areas & ongoing monitoring

What Kills Roach Eggs?

While many products target adult roaches, not all are effective against their eggs. Here are the best ways to destroy or prevent hatching…

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)

IGRs don’t kill immediately but disrupt the development of roach eggs and nymphs, preventing them from maturing or reproducing.

Best for – Long-term prevention
Common ingredients – Hydroprene, methoprene, & pyriproxyfen

Boric Acid

Boric acid sticks to roaches’ bodies and is ingested when they groom themselves. Over time, it can also affect eggs and nymphs by contaminating the nest.

Best for – Behind appliances, cracks, and dry areas
Caution – Keep away from pets and children.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

DE is a natural powder that dehydrates and kills roaches by damaging their exoskeletons. Though it won’t destroy eggs directly, it kills newly hatched roaches before they reproduce.

Best for – Safe, non-toxic areas around the home
Use – Lightly dust in hidden spots where roaches travel

Vacuuming & Cleaning

Vacuuming can physically remove eggs & reduce the number of hatchlings. Clean out drawers, behind appliances, & under sinks where oothecae may be hiding.

Pro Tip – Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter & dispose of the bag outside immediately.

Can a Professional Exterminator Kill Eggs Too?

Yes, professional pest control companies have access to stronger insecticides & IGRs that target both roaches and their eggs. If you’re facing a severe infestation, this is often the most reliable way to completely eliminate the problem.

Exterminators will…

• Apply bait and growth regulators

• Dust wall voids and hard-to-reach areas

• Use thermal fogging or sprays that penetrate egg-hiding spots

• Provide follow-up treatments to ensure full eradication