West Chester's Guide To Effective German Cockroach Control

What To Know About German Cockroaches

It’s not an accent or cuisine that makes German cockroaches so dreaded. Their particularly small size combined with the natural tenacity of cockroaches makes German cockroach infestations a nightmare. German cockroaches can be recognized by their flat, oval-shaped bodies, which are light brown and feature a pair of dark stripes on the back. The typical specimen measures just 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch, noticeably smaller than most other cockroach species in the U.S.

Because they're cockroaches, these pests like to hang out in some genuinely gross places. German cockroaches can be found frequenting garbage bins, bathrooms, and dumpsters where they can pick up harmful pathogens. Besides these nasty spots, German cockroaches are also likely to be found under heavy appliances and furniture, in wall voids, attics, basements, and closets. They may even hide around desks and home office equipment, behind wallpaper, and behind electrical outlets.

Are German Cockroaches Dangerous?

German cockroaches cause a wide variety of problems. Most of all, they are adept at spreading disease. The bacteria and viruses they pick up in their quest for food are often spread to other areas, causing contamination. Dysentery, salmonellosis, and gastroenteritis are just some of the illnesses caused by cockroaches.

An advanced infestation may even trigger allergies in some individuals. As particles of saliva and shed skin fills the air, the skin and lungs can become irritated. Prolonged exposure may even result in asthma or eczema. These pests may also damage or destroy personal belongings, especially documents and paper materials.

German cockroaches are also an incredible burden to your mental health because these pests are notoriously difficult to eliminate. Thanks to their small size, they can easily slip into hidden areas you can’t reach and avoid detection altogether. Not to mention, these roaches breed quickly. Just one female German cockroach can lay as many as 40 eggs at a time which grow to adulthood in as little as a month.

How To Get Rid Of German Cockroaches

If you’ve got German cockroaches on your West Chester property, the best way to eliminate the problem is with help from your friends at Masters Touch Pest Solutions. We offer customized pest control plans for homes and businesses tailored to your unique situation. We’ll perform a thorough inspection of your property to identify all signs of roach activity, administer safe and effective treatment, and follow up as needed until your pest problems are a thing of the past.

How To Prevent German Cockroaches

In the meantime, you can prevent German cockroaches from infesting your property by following these simple tips:

• Seal entry points – Check for cracks and openings on the exterior of your property and seal with silicone caulk. Replace damaged door sweeps and weather stripping.
• Dispose of trash safely – Keep trash cans covered at all times and at least 20 feet away from the property.
• Clean regularly – Mop, sweep, and vacuum floors to remove food debris. Wipe down countertops or any areas where you eat or prepare food. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
• Store food properly – Keep pantry items stored in sturdy plastic, metal, or glass containers with locking lids.

Get in touch with us today to learn about our home pest control and commercial pest control services and for more information on how Masters Touch Pest Solutions can help with German cockroaches on your West Chester property.