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How to get rid of cockroaches naturally: 10 Proven home remedies that work fast

TOI Lifestyle Desk
| etimes.in | Last updated on - Apr 23, 2026, 10:30 IST
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How to get rid of cockroaches naturally: 10 Proven home remedies that work fast

Cockroaches are some of the most persistent household pests. They can usually be found in wet and dark areas, including the kitchen, and are generally unwelcome due to their appearance, potential to spread disease, and contamination of food products. Although various chemical treatments will quickly get rid of cockroaches, some homeowners may opt for natural alternatives to remove them without being subjected to hazardous chemicals. Many household products can be used against these pests, ensuring their population is controlled without using harmful methods. Here are ten tips that may assist you in getting rid of cockroaches.

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​Baking soda and sugar combination​

A mixture of baking soda and sugar is one of the most common natural cockroach remedies. Sugar will attract cockroaches, while baking soda reacts in their stomach, eliminating them gradually. You will need to combine equal parts and place them in all areas where cockroaches are often spotted, including corners, sinks, and behind appliances. This natural remedy is relatively easy to apply and can be done repeatedly to eliminate as many insects as possible.

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Bay leaf




Bay leaves have an unusually powerful scent that cockroaches dislike, making them great natural repellents. Crumbled dried bay leaves placed in cabinets and other entry points will deter them from entering the area. Even though bay leaves cannot directly kill cockroaches, they are very safe and effective in preventing them from getting near any food products.

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Boric acid

As an effective natural substance, boric acid can assist in getting rid of cockroaches. Applying a thin layer of boric acid in cracks, corners and other hidden spots is a sure way to eliminate the bugs. After coming in contact with boric acid, cockroaches carry it back to their nest, resulting in mass elimination. As with other substances mentioned above, boric acid should be applied cautiously and kept out of reach of children and pets.

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Lemon and water cleaning solution

Citrus fruits like lemons repel cockroaches effectively. Using a lemon juice and water mixture to clean floors and other surfaces can keep cockroaches away. This natural solution can not only help eliminate cockroaches but also make the interior look spotless and fresh.

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Neem oil




Neem oil is another excellent natural insecticide that can eliminate cockroaches. Adding just a few drops to water and applying it to the infested spots with a spray is enough to repel cockroaches. Neem oil has a special effect on the reproductive systems of pests, thus reducing their overall population in a short period of time.

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Peppermint oil

Similarly to lemon, peppermint also has a scent which cockroaches avoid. Applying peppermint oil and water spray in all entry points, drain holes and other places cockroaches are likely to frequent will assist in deterring them from your home. In addition, this method can leave your home with pleasant smell after treatment is over.

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Clean your kitchen

Cleaning up your kitchen is a crucial measure in eliminating cockroaches. These pests are drawn to the moistness and dirtiness that they can easily find there. Hence, regular cleaning of the kitchen will significantly lower their chances to invade.

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Seal entry points




Sealing all entry points, including doors, windows and small cracks, is a sure way to prevent cockroaches from entering the building. Closing entry points can help you control their population more effectively and prevent them from invading new locations in your house.

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Clove oil or whole cloves




Cloves are highly recommended for repelling cockroaches since they are drawn by smells that are different from the smell of this spice. Whole cloves or clove oil diluted with water is a perfect natural solution for this issue.

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Dispose garbage regularly

Disposing garbage properly and keeping it in special bins is a very effective measure against cockroaches. Their biggest attraction lies in food sources, which they seek everywhere. By throwing the garbage regularly, you deprive cockroaches of food resources and thus reduce the number of insects.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. The home remedies shared here for controlling cockroaches are based on common household practices and may vary in effectiveness depending on the level of infestation and environmental conditions. Readers are encouraged to adapt these methods to suit their specific needs and consider consulting pest control professionals for more targeted solutions if required.


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