5 best ways to keep cockroaches away from your kitchen 

How to kill cockroaches: Natural repellents like essential oils, vinegar, and neem work wonders to avoid the movement of cockroaches in the kitchen (Image: Pexels)

• Maintain kitchen hygiene to deter cockroaches and prevent food contamination
• Use natural repellents like essential oils and vinegar to keep cockroaches away
• Seal entry points; use homemade remedies or diatomaceous earth for protection.

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There’s nothing more detestable in homes than the presence of cockroaches in the kitchen. They not only cause scare and annoyance, but also spread disease-causing bacteria, which can infect the food and lead to allergies.

To keep them away from the kitchen, here’s a list of effective measures that can be taken to avoid the menace.

Kitchen hygiene

Cockroaches thrive in warm, moist environments. Hence, it’s important to keep your slabs and cabinets clean and dry. Since they dine on food scraps, clean your trash bin regularly and keep the lid closed. Ensure there are no dishes left overnight to clean and maintain sink and drainage hygiene to keep them at bay. Storing food in airtight containers or in the fridge keeps it safe.

Also read | Are there cockroaches in your house? Scientists have a warning for your lungs

Use natural repellents

Often overlooked, natural repellents like essential oils, vinegar, and neem work wonders to avoid the movement of these pests in the kitchen. Cockroaches are repelled by strong scents, as they disrupt their senses, reduce food odour, and cause discomfort. Spray essential oils or vinegar and water solutions near areas that are most likely to attract them.

Seal entry points

Sealing susceptible entry points prevents them from coming into the kitchen. If there are gaps around plumbing or holes, seal them. Declutter your place, keep pet food away, and clean both indoor and outdoor areas regularly. This ensures they won’t be tempted to enter your kitchen.

Try homemade remedies

Homemade remedies work equally well when it comes to keeping cockroaches away. Take equal quantities of boric powder and powdered sugar and mix them well. Sprinkle it over susceptible areas. This works effectively, as sugar attracts cockroaches and boric acid kills them. Baking soda can also be used in place of boric powder.

Also read | 10 easy hacks to keep cockroaches, lizards, mosquitoes away

Use diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earthis a natural powder that kills cockroaches by dehydrating them. It’s made from fossilised algae and is quite effective. Sprinkle it around areas where cockroaches are most likely to create a menace, whether behind appliances or in other vulnerable areas.