Cockroaches are among the most common pests worldwide, and unfortunately, Singapore is no exception. From food centres to high-rise apartments, cockroaches can infiltrate homes and other attracting establishments. While their creepy appearance is enough to make most people uncomfortable, few know that cockroaches can actually bite humans.

Table of Contents

• Do Cockroaches Bite or Sting Humans?
• Are Cockroach Bites Harmful or Dangerous?
• How Do Cockroach Bites Occur?
• Do Cockroaches Bite in the Day or Night Time?
• What Do Roach Bites Look Like?
• How Do You Treat a Roach Bite?
• Home Remedies for Roach Bites
• Why Cockroach Bites Shouldn’t Be Ignored
• How to Protect Yourself from a Cockroach Bite
• Cockroach Bites Can be Prevented with the Right Measures

Yes, cockroaches can bite, although it’s relatively rare. Unlike bees or wasps, cockroaches do not have a stinger. Their only mode of biting is through their mandibles, which they use to chew through organic material – including, in some extreme cases, human skin.

Biting typically occurs when a cockroach is searching for food and detects remainders on the skin. In heavily infested areas, where food is scarce, the chance of being bitten increases significantly.

While cockroach bites are not venomous, they should not be taken lightly. These pests carry a multitude of bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus, which can be transmitted through a bite. Additionally, cockroach saliva may contain allergens that trigger reactions, especially among sensitive individuals.

Some bites may result in secondary infections, swelling, or allergic skin reactions if left untreated. In humid climates like Singapore, where bacteria thrive, proper hygiene and prompt treatment are essential.

Cockroach bites typically occur when:

• A person is sleeping and has food residue on their hands, mouth, or face.
• There is a large infestation, and the roaches are desperate for food.
• The person is in close proximity to cockroach habitats (e.g., dirty kitchens, garbage bins, or cluttered areas).

Cockroaches are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night. They tend to avoid human interaction during the day and come out when it’s dark and quiet. This is also when bites occur – usually while a person is asleep and unaware.

In Singapore’s warm and humid climate, roaches thrive and often seek shelter in homes to escape the heat, increasing the chances of nighttime bites.

A cockroach bite resembles other insect bites but is often slightly larger, more red, and may swell more significantly. Common signs include:

• Raised red bumps
• Itchiness or irritation
• Swelling around the bite area
• Pain or a burning sensation

The bites are often found on the fingers, hands, face, and around the mouth, areas that may have food particles or scents.

Treating a cockroach bite promptly can help reduce discomfort, prevent infection, and promote faster healing. Follow these steps to properly care for the wound:

Wash the Area Thoroughly with Soap and Warm Water
This removes bacteria, dirt, or saliva residue left by the cockroach. Washing the bite helps prevent infections and minimizes the risk of inflammation.

Apply Ice to Reduce Swelling
Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a cold compress, then apply it to the affected area for 10–15 minutes at a time. This helps reduce swelling, numbs the discomfort, and eases itching or pain.

Use Antiseptic Creams or Alcohol to Prevent Infection
After cleaning the area, apply an antiseptic ointment or cream to eliminate any lingering bacteria and speed up healing.

For Severe Swelling or Allergic Reactions, Consult a Doctor
If you experience increased redness, persistent swelling, oozing pus, or symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately. These may indicate a secondary infection or allergic reaction, which are more likely if you have sensitive skin or existing respiratory issues such as asthma.

Avoid Scratching the Bite to Prevent Secondary Infections
Although the area may itch, it’s important not to scratch the bite. Scratching can break the skin barrier, introduce bacteria from your nails, and lead to painful infections or scarring. Use anti-itch creams or cold compresses to manage the discomfort.

If you don’t have access to medication or prefer natural alternatives, several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

• Aloe Vera: Fresh aloe vera gel is well-known for its cooling, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Tea Bags: Cooled, used black or green tea bags can be placed directly on the bite. The tannins in tea have natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Lemon Juice acts as a natural antiseptic. However, avoid this remedy if the bite is open or if you have sensitive skin, as it can cause stinging or irritation.
• Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste and apply this to the bite to relieve itching, reduce inflammation, and draw out toxins.

Even though cockroach bites are rare, they’re often a sign of a serious infestation. Ignoring them not only poses a health risk but also allows the problem to worsen. In Singapore, where the climate is ideal for roaches to breed rapidly, professional intervention is often necessary.

The best way to protect yourself from cockroach bites is to prevent infestations in the first place. Start by sealing cracks and entry points around your home, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Keep food stored in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills promptly, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Regularly taking out the trash and removing clutter also eliminates hiding spots for roaches.

In Singapore’s warm and humid climate, where cockroaches thrive, it’s especially important to schedule periodic pest control treatments to keep infestations under control. You can significantly reduce your risk of bites and other cockroach-related problems by staying proactive with hygiene and prevention.

While cockroach bites are not extremely common, they are still a cause for concern due to the health risks and indication of infestation. Cockroaches can multiply quickly and become difficult to manage without professional help.

Don’t wait for a bite to act. Prevention, cleanliness, and regular pest control services are your best defense against cockroach bites and infestations. If you suspect a cockroach problem in your Singapore home or business, consult Killem Pest to keep your environment clean, safe, and bite-free.

Author: Nicole Zycinski-Singh

Discovering cockroach droppings in your home is almost always a warning sign of an infestation. These tiny droppings may seem insignificant at first, but they carry serious health risks and should not be ignored. We will help you identify cockroach poop, differentiate it from other pests’ droppings, and explain what to do if you find it in your home.

Table of Contents

• Is Cockroach Poop Dangerous?
• What Do Cockroach Droppings Look Like?
• Rodent Feces vs. Roach Droppings
• Do Roach Droppings Have a Smell?
• Where You Might Find Roach Droppings
• Can You Find Roach Droppings but No Roaches?
• How to Get Rid of Roach Droppings
• What to Do If You Find Roach Droppings

Yes, cockroach droppings pose significant health risks – apart from being just gross. Cockroaches regularly crawl through dirty environments and carry bacteria, viruses, and allergens in their feces. Exposure to roach poop can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in sensitive individuals like children and those with respiratory conditions. Additionally, roach droppings can contaminate food and surfaces, potentially spreading diseases such as Salmonella and E. coli.

Cockroach poop varies in appearance depending on the species and size of the roach. Generally, it looks like:

• Small black or dark brown specks, similar to ground coffee or black pepper.
• Cylindrical pellets with ridges (from larger cockroach species like American cockroaches).
• Smears or stains in areas where roaches are active, especially near corners, baseboards, or appliances.

It’s important to distinguish cockroach droppings from rodent feces:

• Roach droppings are small, uniform, and resemble ground pepper or tiny grains of rice.
• Rodent feces (such as from mice or rats) are larger, pellet-shaped, and often have tapered ends.
• Texture also differs—rodent droppings are solid and dry, whereas roach droppings can appear more granular or smeared.

Yes, cockroach droppings emit a distinct, musty odor. This smell becomes stronger as the infestation grows and is often accompanied by pheromones that attract more roaches. If you notice an unpleasant, lingering scent in your home, especially in dark and humid areas, it could indicate a hidden infestation.

Cockroach poop is typically found in dark, hidden spaces where they hide or travel frequently, especially near food and water sources. Some preferrable hiding places include:

• Kitchens – Near sinks, stoves, refrigerators, and inside cabinets.
• Bathrooms – Around drains, under sinks, and behind toilets.
• Basements and attics – Dark, undisturbed spaces with moisture.
• Behind appliances – Under microwaves, dishwashers, and washing machines.
• Inside drawers and pantries – Where food crumbs are present.

Yes, it is possible to see cockroach droppings without spotting live roaches. Roaches like to hide in cracks, crevices, and behind walls during the day. If you find their droppings, it’s a clear sign of their presence. You may also notice shed skin, egg casings, or a musty odor—additional indicators of an infestation.

Cleaning up cockroach poop is essential for maintaining a safe home environment. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Wear protective gear – Use gloves and a mask to avoid direct contact with allergens.
2. Vacuum the area – Use a vacuum to remove droppings without spreading particles.
3. Clean thoroughly –Wipe down surfaces with a disinfectant or a mixture of bleach/soap and water. And don’t forget to throw away sponge after the cleaning.
4. Dispose of waste properly – Seal vacuum bags and cleaning materials in a plastic bag before discarding them.
5. Improve sanitation – Reduce clutter, store food in sealed containers and clean up food crumbs, seal off any entry points and eliminate moisture sources to deter roaches from returning.

If you discover cockroach droppings in your home, taking immediate action is crucial to prevent a worsening infestation:

• Inspect for additional signs – Look for live roaches, eggs, and hiding spots.
• Seal entry points – Close gaps in walls, pipes, and windows to prevent more roaches from entering.
• Use traps or baits – Set up roach traps to monitor and reduce the population.
• Contact a professional pest management company – DIY solutions may not be enough for severe infestations. A pest control expert can assess the situation and provide effective treatments to eliminate roaches for good.

Cockroach infestations can escalate quickly, making early detection and intervention essential. If you suspect a roach problem in your home, don’t wait — contact a professional pest management company today for a thorough inspection and tailored treatment plan.

Author: Nicole Zycinski-Singh

Cockroaches in your car can be more than just an annoyance; they can pose health risks and potentially damage your vehicle’s interior. They can easily infest a car and it can be very difficult to get rid of them as they are attracted to food, warmth and moisture. If you’ve discovered cockroaches around your vehicle, it’s essential to take action promptly.

Table of Contents

• Why Do You Have Cockroaches Inside Your Car
• Common Ways of Cockroaches Getting in Cars
• Where Do Cockroaches Hide in Your Car
• What Are the Common Signs of Cockroach Infestation?
• Why It’s Important to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Your Car
• How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Your Car
• How to Prevent Cockroaches From Returning to Your Car
• Professional Cockroach Removal in Singapore

Understanding what attracts cockroaches to your car can help you tackle the root cause of the problem. Cockroaches are drawn to warmth, shelter, and a readily available food source. Singapore’s climate combined with food crumbs, spilled beverages, and even cosmetics or paper products provide ideal conditions for cockroaches to thrive. And it’s not only cockroaches – other pests can also easily infest your car.

Another question you may have is: how did the cockroaches get into your car in the first place? Cockroaches can enter your car through various entry points, including:

• Open windows or doors
• Small openings, like gaps or cracks in the vehicle’s exterior, cracks in the windshield, etc
• Ventilation systems
• Carrying items infested with cockroach eggs or nymphs into the vehicle (ie luggage, used furniture, moving boxes, etc)
• Dirty garages are a perfect breeding place for cockroaches (that can easily move inside your car)

The key to getting rid of roaches is identifying their hiding places. To start with, consider areas where they can find food or shelter in your car. Cockroaches are used to finding hiding spots in the smallest spaces. Common areas where you might find them in your car include:

• Underneath car seats or carpet
• In the glove compartment
• Within the dashboard
• Behind door panels
• Trunk area

Identifying signs of a cockroach infestation in your car is crucial for early intervention. Look out for:

• Droppings resembling black pepper or coffee grounds
• Egg casings (oothecae) in hidden crevices
• Dead cockroaches or old shells that have been shed
• Unpleasant, musty odor
• Live cockroaches, especially during nighttime

Apart from the discomfort of having cockroaches in your car, there are several reasons why it is important to eliminate them:

• Cockroaches can spread diseases and cause allergies, skin itchiness or breathing problems.
• They can cause damage to your vehicle’s interior by chewing on wiring and upholstery.
• Cockroaches can also be a dangerous distraction while driving.
• A cockroach-infested car can cause discomfort to passengers and deter potential buyers if you plan to sell your vehicle.
• Cockroaches can also attract additional pests like rats, causing a bigger infestation.

Getting rid of cockroaches in your car may seem like a challenging task, but following these steps can help you effectively eradicate cockroaches from your vehicle:

Regular Cleaning: Remove all clutter and sources of food, vacuum the interior thoroughly and pay close attention to crevices and under seats.

Use Cockroach Baits: Place cockroach baits strategically in your car, focusing on potential hiding spots. These baits contain insecticides that attract and kill roaches.

Apply Insecticide Sprays: Utilize sprays designed for indoor use in your car. Ensure proper ventilation during and after application.

Steam Cleaning: Consider steam cleaning your car’s upholstery and carpeting, as high temperatures can effectively kill cockroaches and their eggs.

Professional Pest Control: If DIY pest control efforts remain ineffective, consider seeking help from professional car pest control services for cockroaches. Our Mirakn dry treatment for vehicles effectively eliminates cockroaches without causing any staining or interior damage. Its fast-acting formula and active ingredients spread into even the tiniest spaces, effectively targeting cockroach populations.

Once you’ve eliminated the cockroaches from your car, take measures to prevent their return:

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean and declutter your car’s interior, promptly removing any spills or food crumbs.

Avoid Eating in your car: Even if you try to eat carefully, the smallest food crumbs can attract cockroaches to your car, so try to avoid eating inside or clean afterwards.

Seal Entry Points: Keep your windows and doors closed, and seal any gaps or cracks in your car’s exterior to prevent cockroaches from entering.

Pay Attention to Where You Park: Keep your garage clean, and if you park outside, avoid parking near garbage bins, drains and dirty areas.

Use Repellents: Consider using natural cockroach repellents, such as cedarwood sachets or essential oils like peppermint, to deter roaches from entering your car.

Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your car’s interior to detect any signs of cockroach activity.

Early intervention is key to preventing cockroach infestations, but even your best efforts can be ineffective when dealing with severe infestations. This is where professional car cockroach treatment may be the answer. Professional car pest control services, coupled with proper hygiene, should guarantee the complete extermination of cockroaches in your car.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Having cockroach infestations can be irritating for homeowners and businesses. They can quickly multiply, posing health risks and causing significant property damage. Unfortunately, using commercial and DIY solutions may not be effective for larger infestations. This is when many people turn to fumigation as a solution. If you are wondering what happens after fumigation, here are some important factors to consider and what to expect next.

Table of Contents

• Is Fumigation Effective for Cockroach Infestation?
• Do Roaches Get Worse After Cockroach Treatment?
• Why Do I Still See Cockroaches After Fumigation?
• What Should I Expect After Cockroach Fumigation?
• What to Do After Cockroach Fumigation
• What Not to Do After Cockroach Fumigation
• How Soon Can You Clean After Cockroach Fumigation
• What to Do If You Are Still Seeing Cockroaches After Treatment

Fumigation is a highly effective method for eliminating cockroach infestations, especially when the infestation is severe or widespread. Cockroach exterminators in Singapore use specialized chemicals that spread deep into cracks, crevices, and other hiding places of roaches. These chemicals can reach areas that traditional sprays or baits can’t, ensuring thorough eradication of the pests.

Typically, professional fumigation leads to a significant reduction in the cockroach population. However, some cockroaches may still be visible immediately after treatment as they are trying to escape the chemicals killing them.

Several factors can contribute to the continued presence of cockroaches after fumigation or pest control treatment:

• Firstly, it takes time for the chemicals to reach all areas of infestation, and some resilient cockroaches may survive initial exposure.
• Additionally, cockroach eggs are resilient and may not be affected by the fumigation. These eggs can hatch days or even weeks after treatment, so you may see cockroaches at your property again.
• Moreover, if your neighbours have untreated infestations, cockroaches may migrate back into your property.

Once a pest control professional has treated your property, you may expect all of the roaches to go away immediately. However, for more severe infestations you might need time or multiple treatments to completely eradicate the cockroaches. Here are some other things you can expect:

1. You may still see the cockroaches at your property after the fumigation, as mentioned before.
2. You will need to keep your home clean and continue pest control efforts to avoid future infestations.
3. You’ll have to deal with the aftermath of fumigation, i.e. cleaning the dead roaches throughout your property.

After a cockroach fumigation treatment, there are several steps homeowners and businesses can take to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and prevent reinfestation:

Follow Exterminator’s Instructions: Pest control professionals usually provide specific instructions regarding post-fumigation procedures. It’s essential to follow these instructions to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.

Seal Entry Points: Cockroaches can enter buildings through tiny cracks, so it’s important to seal any potential entry points to prevent reinfestation.

Maintain Cleanliness: Cockroaches are attracted to food crumbs, spills, and clutter. Keep your space clean and tidy to prevent future cockroach infestations.

Restrict Water Sources: Cockroaches will look for water sources to survive, so make sure your plumbing is secure and hard to get to.

Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your property for signs of cockroach activity, look out for droppings, eggs, or unpleasant odors. Early detection can prevent smaller infestations from getting out of control.

Schedule Follow-Up Treatments: Depending on the severity of the infestation, you might need to schedule follow-up treatments to ensure complete eradication of cockroaches.

While there are several steps to take after cockroach fumigation, there are also certain actions to avoid to prevent compromising the effectiveness of the treatment:

Don’t Clean Immediately: Cleaning immediately after fumigation can disrupt the treatment, so it’s essential to wait for the recommended time to allow the chemicals to fully eliminate remaining pests.

Don’t Block Ventilation: Avoid blocking ventilation during and after fumigation to ensure proper spread of the fumigant and to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals.

Don’t Skip Follow-Up Inspections: Even if the initial treatment appears successful, don’t skip recommended follow-up inspections. Cockroaches are persistent pests, and thorough eradication may require multiple treatments.

The time you need to wait before cleaning after cockroach fumigation can range from a few hours to several days. It varies depending on the type of chemicals used and the extent of the infestation. Generally, you will get specific instructions regarding when it’s safe to clean after treatment from the exterminator. Be patient and follow these instructions to avoid compromising the effectiveness of the treatment.

If you continue to see cockroaches after fumigation treatment, don’t panic. Contact your exterminator immediately to report the ongoing issue. Depending on your situation, the exterminator may recommend additional treatments, or further inspection to identify potential sources of reinfestation.

While fumigation can significantly reduce the cockroach population, it may not eradicate every single pest immediately. By following post-fumigation tips, maintaining cleanliness, and spotting the signs of reinfestation, you can enjoy a cockroach-free environment at your property.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Cockroach traps are a useful tool when dealing with cockroach infestations. These devices come in various forms, from sticky traps to baits, aiming to capture unwelcome guests. Understanding how cockroach traps work is crucial in removing these pests effectively.

Table of Contents

• What Are Cockroach Traps?
• How Do Cockroach Traps Work?
• Do Cockroach Baits and Traps Work?
• How to Use Cockroach Traps Correctly
• DIY Cockroach Traps
• Cockroach Trap Removal
• The Problem with Cockroach Traps

Cockroach traps are devices designed to attract and capture cockroaches. They come in two types: adhesive traps and bait traps.

Adhesive traps have sticky surfaces that trap cockroaches and prevent them from moving upon contact. They are placed strategically in areas where cockroaches are seen frequently.

Bait traps, on the other hand, attract cockroaches with a mix of food and insecticide. They will consume the bait, return to their hiding spots, and eventually perish, often eliminating other cockroaches through secondary transfer of the insecticide.

Cockroach traps can be somewhat effective, but their efficiency varies based on factors like the type of trap, placement, and the extent of infestation.

Cockroach traps are more effective in dealing with smaller infestations when there’s no source of breeding. While they might reduce the population initially, they might not entirely eradicate a large infestation. Cockroach traps don’t deal with the root cause of the infestation.

Traps work better for smaller spaces, where you can identify risk areas and place the traps accordingly. Sticking plenty of traps in a larger space with more severe infestation won’t be as effective.

It is also worth remembering that over time, the effectiveness of traps might diminish as cockroaches adapt to the bait or develop resistance to certain insecticides. That’s why it is important to change or rotate baits regularly.

For cockroach traps to work it is important to place them strategically. Placing traps in spots with high roach activity can help you identify the cause of the infestation or the infested areas.

Main spots include kitchens, bathrooms, behind appliances and along baseboards. When placing traps, ensure they are not obstructed and are placed where roaches can easily access them.

Besides commercial products, you can try using DIY cockroach traps along with other cockroach prevention methods. Homemade cockroach traps offer a cost-effective alternative for managing infestations. Here are some homemade methods you can try using simple materials like duct tape, bottles or jars:

Method 1: Duct Tape Trap

1. Place a piece of duct tape sticky side up near cockroach hotspots.
2. Put a small amount of solid food (bait) in the center of the duct tape. You can try using onions or anything with strong scents.
3. The sticky tape will trap the cockroaches when they try to reach the bait.

Method 2: Jar Trap

1. Create a way for cockroaches to climb inside the jar, for example by wrapping it with duct tape.
2. Coat the inside of the jar with petroleum jelly so that cockroaches can’t get out of it.
3. Place bait at the bottom of the jar – again, this can be something smelly like onion or overripe fruits.
4. Place the jar where cockroaches are spotted. The cockroaches will be attracted in by the bait but won’t climb out due to the slippery jar interior.

Method 3: Bottle Trap

1. Leave a small amount of red wine or a sweet liquid in the bottle.
2. Spread cooking oil or petroleum jelly inside the top of the bottle.
3. Place the bottle where cockroaches are present. Cockroaches will be attracted by the scent, climb in, slip on the oil, and get trapped.

Some additional tips include:

• Experiment with bait options like onion, fruit, or sweet liquids to see what works best in your situation.
• Dispose of trapped roaches by drowning them in hot water or releasing them far from your home.

Always be cautious when handling pests and consider consulting professionals for severe infestations.

Once traps have captured cockroaches or the replacement time has come, safely dispose of them by sealing them in a plastic bag before discarding. For adhesive traps, avoid touching the sticky surface directly.

When placed in the right way, cockroach traps can still help homeowners deal with pest infestations and achieve some results. However, it is not as effective as the results from professional pest management services.

Cockroach traps have certain limitations and can only catch a few insects at a time. They are a good tool to identify and monitor infestations and can help to reduce visible pests, but they don’t deal with the root cause of it.

If you find cockroaches in your home, it is best to contact a pest management professional to discuss how to handle the infestation. Combining traps with proper sanitation, preventive DIY measures and targeted pest control methods can help to eliminate the infestation completely.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Cockroaches have been around in our homes for many centuries, adapting and surviving in various environments. They are often associated with filth and dirt, but what really attracts these unwanted guests to our houses? With this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to take proactive measures to keep cockroaches away and maintain a pest-free living environment.

Table of contents:

• What Attracts Cockroaches the Most?
• What Attracts Cockroaches to Your House?
• What Smells Attract Roaches?
• Common Places to See Cockroaches in Your Home
• Keeping Cockroaches Away from Your Home

There are certain factors that make your home more attractive to cockroaches, including:

• Dirt and clutter
• Odors, particularly those associated with food
• Garbage cans and scent of rotting food and other organic matter
• Moisture
• Warmth

Cockroaches are a common household pest that can bring annoyance and be a potential health hazard. Many people assume that if they keep their homes clean and tidy, they won’t have to worry about a cockroach infestation. However, even a spotless home can be attractive to cockroaches. Here are a few factors that can attract cockroaches to your house:

Food Sources. Cockroaches are attracted to any kind of food, including crumbs, grease, and food scraps. Even a small amount of food can be enough to attract cockroaches, so make sure to store food in sealed containers and keep your kitchen and dining area clean.

Water Sources. Cockroaches need water to survive, and naturally they are attracted to moisture. This can include leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and standing water in your sink or shower. To keep cockroaches away from your home, fix any leaks and prevent moisture with proper ventilation in your home.

Clutter. Clutter, like piles of papers or boxes, provide the perfect hiding place for cockroaches. This is why it is important to keep clutter to a minimum and get rid of any unwanted items.

Warmth and Shelter. Cockroaches are also attracted to warm and humid environments, and any dark and damp areas that provide shelter (e.g. basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms). They can also appear near your heating system, radiators, or appliances that generate heat. Make sure you keep these areas clean and dry to prevent cockroach infestations.

Entry Points. Cockroaches can enter your home in search of food and shelter through even the tiniest of cracks or gaps around windows and doors, or in foundations. Make sure to seal any gaps or cracks and install door sweeps on all exterior doors.

Location. Some areas are simply more prone to cockroaches than others. If you live in these areas you can expect to see cockroaches even if your house is clean and spotless.

Cockroaches are attracted to a variety of strong odors, particularly those associated with food. The following are some of the smells that can attract cockroaches to your home:

1. Food odors, especially sweet and starchy food. The scent of cooking oils, sauces, and spices can also attract these pests.
2. Garbage odors, like smell of rotting food and other organic matter, which is often found in garbage cans.
3. Pet odors, like the smell of pet food, as well as the scent of urine and feces.
4. Dirty dishes that are left in the sink can attract cockroaches due to the smell left by food.
5. Musty odors caused by moist and humid environments. Basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms are common areas where these smells can occur.

Since cockroaches are attracted to various sources, they can be found in various areas of your home, including:

• Kitchen, as it provides easy access to food and water. They can for example be hiding in furniture, under the sink, behind appliances.
• Bathroom, as it can be a source of moisture and warmth for cockroaches. They can often be found in drains, behind the toilet, and under the sink.
• Basement, as it provides dark and humid environment. Cockroaches can be found hiding in boxes, cluttered areas, and around pipes and drains.
• Attic: cockroaches can enter through small cracks and gaps, and are attracted to the warmth and humidity in the attic.
• Laundry room: cockroaches can be found hiding in piles of dirty clothes or in the washing machine, as it offers a damp and warm environment for them.
• Garage: cockroaches are attracted to clutter and darkness and can hide in boxes, tools, and other items.

If you notice cockroaches in your home, it’s important to take action promptly to prevent an infestation. Contact a pest control professional to identify the source of the problem and develop a treatment plan to eliminate the cockroaches from your home.

Even clean homes can attract cockroaches if the right conditions are present. By knowing what factors attract cockroaches, you can take the necessary steps to prevent future infestations. If your cockroach problem is out of control and you need help, contact Killem Pest and our pest control professionals will handle the issue.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Cockroaches are amongst the most repulsive of pests, yet they are also one of the most prevalent types of pests which can be found in homes, restaurants, shopping centres and commercial buildings.

Table of Contents

• What Types of Cockroaches are there?
• Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
• What to do if you Spot a Cockroach Infestation?
• How are Cockroaches Removed?

There are four types of cockroaches in Singapore: American (Periplaneta americana), German (Blattella germánica), Australian (Periplaneta australasiae), and brown (Supella Longipalpa).

• The American cockroach is the largest breed, extending to 1.6 inches in length. They are reddish-brown, have tri-segmented bodies, are winged, and have antennae on their heads.

• The German cockroach is shorter, ranging from 1.1 to 1.6 inches in length. Various colors present themselves, going from a pale tan to black. Although it has wings on its back, it cannot fly. Another distinguishing characteristic is two dark lines that run from the base of the head to the beginning of the wings, looking like an equal (=) sign.

• The Australian cockroach is 0.9-1.4 inches in length. A mask pattern of dark brown and yellow near its head is the most defining feature, and it is able to fly. Its primary diet consists of plants, though it is willing to eat food from kitchens as well.

• Finally, the brown cockroach is the smallest of the four, growing to roughly 0.5 inches long. It is also a flier and is recognizable because of its light brown color and two long, brown bands that wrap around its body.

Some of the common types of cockroaches worldwide include German cockroaches, American cockroaches, brown-banded cockroaches and Oriental cockroaches.

• Brown-banded cockroaches can be up to 13 mm in length, have two light yellow bands across their bodies. This type of cockroach can jump when disturbed, and also have wings (but only males are capable of flight).
• Oriental cockroaches can be from 25mm (males) to 32mm (females) long. They have glossy, dark-brown or black bodies.

All cockroaches are indoor and outdoor pests, although the Australian cockroach prefers the outdoors. Three also prefer warm environments except for the brown cockroach, which likes dry spaces like cabinets.

Cockroach infestations are messy.

One sure sign of an infestation is finding cockroach droppings around the home.

Nymphs (young cockroaches) will leave feces that are small and hard to detect, looking like pieces of black powder. Droppings from adults are larger and cylindrical.

Other signs are unpleasant odors and finding shell fragments underneath furniture or in hard to reach places. Because they are small, cockroaches can easily slip under floor mats, behind wallpaper, and through cracks in windows, doors, and walls. However, if they come in contact with liquid, they will leave a distinctive, greasy smear along a surface. Since they are nocturnal, seeing a cockroach during the day is another bad sign as it is evidence of an infestation.

In Singapore, cockroaches are commonly found in kitchens (especially in sing drains and behind appliances) and bin chutes, since they prefer a dark and moist habitat.

If an infestation is detected, immediate action should be taken. Each breed of cockroach produces 100-200 young from one mating pair, and they reach sexual maturation within a matter of days. It is likely for cockroaches to multiply exponentially into the thousands. People in flats should contact their landlords and pest control providers immediately to prevent the spread of cockroaches to other homes. If in a house, a pest control provider should again be called.

Cockroaches carry many diseases in their feces and on their bodies.

Gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, salmonella, listeria, cholera, leprosy, and dysentery can all be found in or on them, making it crucial for people suffering from an infestation to not touch them, their droppings, or any food that might have been contaminated.

Our Pest Control Operators (PCOs) will use a variety of techniques to control populations depending on the location of the infestations. For example, in kitchens our PCOs would use gel bait or spraying, outdoors our PCOs would use spraying and fogging.

Killem Pest has also pioneered a technique of bin chute flush outs for condominiums to ensure that cockroaches do not enter the internal areas of the buildings from bin chutes. Gel bait is a type of toxic gel (targeted specifically at and toxic only to cockroaches) that is applied in cracks and crevices, which are areas cockroaches are attracted to. Cockroaches will feed on the gel bait, return to their nest, and die. When this happens, the other roaches will eat his body and become poisoned themselves, dying and repeating the cycle.

To get in touch with Killem about a cockroach problem, call us or please fill in the form on our cockroach removal page.