How to Stay Cockroach Free this Summer

Summer is such a wonderful season… until you spot a cockroach scurrying across your kitchen floor. That small, unwelcome visitor can quickly ruin a sunny afternoon or a peaceful evening. Trust me, I know just how unsettling it is to see one of these little invaders in your space. But don’t worry—I’ve learned a few tricks to make my home totally unappealing to cockroaches, and I’m here to share what works!

From what attracts cockroaches in the first place to practical tips for keeping them out of your home, this post will help you enjoy a pest-free summer. You’ll walk away with actionable advice that keeps cockroach colonies far, far away.

Why Summer Attracts Cockroaches

I’ve noticed this pattern every year; as soon as the summer heat hits, cockroaches seem to wake up from their hiding spots. But why is this the case?

There’s actually a good reason for that infestation uptick in the warmer months. First off, when temperatures rise, cockroaches become more active. They thrive in warmth and prefer moist, humid environments, which summer conveniently provides. If your area has high heat paired with summer rains, their favorite conditions are all but guaranteed.

Not only that, but many of us inadvertently make our homes more attractive to them. Think about it—we’re hosting backyard cookouts, leaving food out longer, and keeping doors and windows open more often for ventilation. For cockroaches, this is an invitation to feast.

Knowing this, my summer survival rule is simple: I reduce the reasons a cockroach might wander into my home in the first place.

Seal Your Home Like a Pro

The first lesson I learned about keeping cockroaches away is that they’re experts at finding entry points. A gap around a door or a tiny crack in the wall might as well be a welcome mat for these determined pests.

To make sure your home stays sealed:

• Inspect and seal cracks and gaps: Check areas around windows, doors, and any utilities that enter your home (like plumbing or wiring). I use caulk for tiny gaps and have invested in weatherstripping for doors.
• Install door sweeps: I can’t tell you how many times I saw a cockroach creep under the door until I took this simple step. Door sweeps are affordable and incredibly effective.
• Cover vents and drains: This might sound a little extra, but I’ve learned that cockroaches can crawl through vents and drains, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Make sure any exposed vents have covers, and keep sink drains clean and closed when not in use.

Trust me, sealing your home is one of the easiest ways to limit cockroach access.

Keep it Clean

I know it sounds obvious, but cleanliness really is key when it comes to cockroach prevention. Here’s what’s worked for me:

1. Clean up food immediately. After a meal or snack, I make it a point to clear plates, wipe counters, and sweep the floor. Crumbs and food residue are like a buffet for cockroaches.
2. Take out the trash often. Nothing attracts pests faster than an overflowing garbage can. I always use a trash bin with a lid and take it out daily during summer.
3. Vacuum regularly. Even if you can’t see crumbs, they’re there. I vacuum at least once a week, which also helps eliminate any eggs a cockroach might have laid.

Quick tip: Don’t forget to clean under furniture and appliances where cockroaches like to hide.

Fix Leaks and Reduce Moisture

If there’s one thing I learned, it’s that cockroaches LOVE water just as much as they love food. The first time I had a cockroach problem, I didn’t think twice about a leaky sink—I now know better!

• Repair leaks. Tiny drips from your pipes, faucets, or even air conditioning units can attract roaches, so don’t ignore these issues.
• Check for damp areas. Particularly in basements, bathrooms, and under the kitchen sink. Use a dehumidifier if necessary.

By eliminating moisture sources, you’re removing another reason for cockroaches to stick around.

Don’t Forget Professional Help

Despite my best efforts, there was a summer when cockroaches overwhelmed my kitchen. That’s when I realized it’s sometimes worth calling the pros. Exterminators can use techniques and treatments to get rid of large infestations and provide advice to ensure they don’t return.

If you’re hesitant, I totally get it—I felt the same way. But professional pest control can save you so much stress and frustration in the long run.

Say Goodbye to Cockroaches This Summer

Your home should be your sanctuary, not a summer hangout for cockroaches! With a bit of diligence, it’s totally possible to stay pest-free this season. By sealing any entry points, keeping your home clean, and eliminating moisture, you’ll make things as uninviting as possible for these unwelcome visitors.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember you’re not alone! There’s no shame in seeking professional help to ensure your home remains a cockroach-free zone.

Here’s to a peaceful, pest-free summer!