Cockroach Control & Preventative Maintenance Tips

1. Keep All Food Sealed and Stored Properly

Cockroaches are attracted to easy food sources. Store food in airtight containers, keep fruit off the counters, and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight.

2. Reduce Moisture and Fix Leaks

Cockroaches need water to survive. Repair leaking pipes, dripping taps, and condensation issues—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and furnace rooms.

3. Eliminate Clutter and Cardboard

Cardboard holds moisture and provides the perfect hiding spot for cockroaches. Reduce clutter, especially in storage rooms, basements, and under sinks.

4. Clean Crumbs, Grease & Spills Promptly

Grease behind stoves, crumbs under appliances, and sticky spills are strong attractants. Deep-clean high-traffic areas regularly.

5. Seal Cracks, Gaps & Entry Points

Cockroaches squeeze through tiny openings. Seal gaps around baseboards, plumbing, vents, and electrical outlets to limit travel routes and hiding spots.

6. Take Out Garbage Regularly

Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and dispose of waste often. Rinse recyclables before placing them in bins.

7. Maintain Proper Sanitation in Appliances

Cockroaches commonly infest:

• Behind refrigerators
  
  

• Inside dishwasher doors
  
  

• Under and behind stoves
  
  

• Inside microwave vents
  
  

Clean these areas regularly.

8. Vacuum and Sweep Often

Regular vacuuming removes food particles, eggs, and even small nymphs. Focus on kitchens, dining areas, and baseboard edges.

9. Use Sticky Monitors to Track Activity

Place glue traps under sinks, behind appliances, or in suspected hotspots. Early detection helps prevent full infestations.

10. Avoid Store-Bought Foggers

Foggers scatter cockroaches deeper into walls and neighbouring units, making the problem worse. Professional treatments are far more effective.

11. Wash Pet Bowls & Clean Food Areas Daily

Pet food left out overnight is a major attractant. Clean bowls and sweep around them regularly.

12. Follow Professional Treatment Instructions

After a treatment, avoid washing treated surfaces unless advised. Keeping sanitation high helps the insecticide remain effective.

13. Multi-Unit Buildings: Report Early

In Calgary apartments, cockroaches can spread between units. Early reporting prevents large-scale infestations.

14. Schedule Routine Professional Prevention

Regular inspections and preventative treatments keep cockroaches from returning, especially in high-risk buildings, restaurants, and condos.