How to keep cockroaches away from the kitchen?

Even small crumbs can feed a roach colony, so staying on top of cleanliness is essential.

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## 🚱 Step 2: Eliminate Moisture Sources

Cockroaches need water just as much as food.

* Fix **leaky faucets, pipes, or drains** under the sink.
* Wipe down the sink and counters at night to prevent standing water.
* Don’t leave damp sponges or dishcloths out — hang them to dry.

Dry environments are much less attractive to roaches.

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## 🌿 Step 3: Use Natural Deterrents

These natural ingredients are known to **repel cockroaches** effectively and safely:

### 🧄 1. **Bay Leaves**

Place dried bay leaves in cabinets and corners. Roaches dislike their strong scent.

### 🧅 2. **Cucumber Slices**

Fresh cucumber can deter roaches — replace every couple of days.

### 🌱 3. **Peppermint Oil Spray**

Mix:

* 10–15 drops of peppermint essential oil
* 1 cup water
* A splash of white vinegar

Spray in corners, under sinks, and behind appliances.

### 🍽 4. **Baking Soda + Sugar Trap**

Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar in a shallow dish. The sugar attracts them, and the baking soda disrupts their digestion.

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## 🧱 Step 4: Seal Entry Points

Cockroaches are expert contortionists. Prevent them from getting in by:

* Sealing cracks and gaps in walls or around windows
* Installing door sweeps and weather stripping
* Covering drain openings with mesh or stoppers at night

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## 🧼 Step 5: Deep Clean Hidden Areas Monthly

Roaches love to hide where you don’t usually clean:

* Under the fridge and stove
* Behind cabinets
* Inside the pantry corners

Pull out appliances occasionally and **vacuum or mop** these hidden zones to remove food particles and eggs.

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## ☠️ Bonus: When to Use Roach Baits or Traps

If you’ve done all the above and still see roaches:

* Use **gel baits** near cracks and under appliances.
* Try **sticky traps** to monitor where they’re most active.
* Avoid spraying harsh insecticides in the kitchen — opt for **targeted solutions** instead.

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## Final Thoughts

The key to a cockroach-free kitchen isn’t just killing bugs — it’s making your space **inhospitable to them**. A clean, dry, well-sealed kitchen with natural deterrents is the best defense you can have.

Stick to these practices, and you’ll keep cockroaches out — without resorting to toxic chemicals.

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Want a DIY peppermint spray recipe card or a checklist for monthly kitchen maintenance? Just let me know!