Prevention

• Block their entrances - around doors, windows, plumbing and any cracks and crevices.
• Don't offer them food. Keep floors swept, counters clean, dishes washed. Store food in well-sealed, sturdy containers.
• Don't offer them water. Fix leaky faucets and dry off countertops.
• Put a 1-2 inch band of cedar mulch right next to your house around the entire perimeter to keep out roaches. This only works if the cedar has not been "de-oiled." It is the aromatic oils that repel insects. Replenish twice a year. This will also repel slugs and snails as well as other insects. And when it rains it gives the air a pleasant scent.

Boric Acid Treatment

• Dust surfaces where cockroaches travel with a very thin film of boric acid powder. Follow the baseline between counter tops and backsplash. Put under couch pillows and on wood floors and carpets. (This can be vacuumed up after three days.) The residue lasts and is effective for up to a year. Apply with a plastic squeeze bottle (Honey Bears work well) or purchase a bulb duster. Get it into all cracks and crevices where they might hide. Be patient. Boric acid acts slowly, but is very effective.
• Put boric acid tablets (such as Echol's, found in most grocery stores) sparingly in out-of-the-way places where roaches travel, but out of reach of children and pets.

See Materials for Boric Acid.