When winter rolls around, so do some of the grossest houseguests you never invited: cockroaches. They’re on a mission to find warmth, food, and water, and they’re not picky about whose house they crash. While these disgusting invaders are great at surviving, they’re definitely not great roommates. They’re the things that nightmares are made of, and they’ve hit headlines like, “Cockroach Extracted from Man’s Small Intestine – and It Was Still Alive.” They’re horrible to see, smell, and experience, so keeping them out is key.
Cockroaches: understanding the invader
Cockroaches are survivors in the truest sense. They’ve been around for millions of years, and with over 4,500 species worldwide, it’s clear they’ve mastered the art of living. A handful of species are likely to bother you at home and, here in the U.S. Certain cities have higher rates of infestations. Over 37% of Houston residents have reported issues with cockroaches. And over 28% of Florida homes have had cockroaches in 2024. Here are some common, U.S. varieties you’ll never want to meet:
- German cockroach: These small tan bugs with dark stripes on their backs love to move in and settle down indoors.
- American cockroach: The big, reddish-brown ones you’ll spot in basements or sewers.
- Oriental cockroach: Shiny, black, and medium-sized, they’re fans of damp spaces.
- Brown-banded cockroach: These smaller cockroaches with light brown bands are all about drier spots.
No matter the type, they’re all unwelcome visitors.
How to identify cockroaches in your home
Seeing one scurry across the floor is a surefire sign, but these nocturnal ninjas are pros at staying out of sight. Here’s what to watch for:
- Appearance: Flat, oval-shaped bodies, long antennae, and six spiny legs. Their size and color depend on the species.
- Movement: Super quick and often running for cover when you flip on the lights. Gotcha!
Signs of cockroaches without actually seeing them
Even if they’re hiding, cockroaches leave behind clues. Here’s how to tell if they’re around:
- Droppings: Little black specks that look like ground pepper. And with this description, you may never want to eat ground pepper again.
- Egg cases: Oval-shaped casings tucked away in hidden corners.
- Unpleasant odor: A musty, funky smell can mean a big infestation.
- Shed skins: They grow, so they’ll leave behind their old exoskeletons.
- Smear marks: In damp spots, you might find streaky residue.
Wondercide products for cockroach control
Say, “Bye, cockroaches.” Wondercide has your back with plant-powered solutions that work. Here are some must-haves:
Wondercide Ant & Roach for Home + Kitchen: This aerosol spray makes quick work of ants, roaches, carpet beetles, and silverfish. It’s safe to use around pets and family when used as directed, and it’s packed with natural essential oils to get the job done. No artificial colors, dyes, or fragrances, plus, it’s phenol-free and clove-free. Just spray directly on the bugs you see, wipe up the excess spray and dead bugs, and you’re good to go.
Indoor Pest Control Spray: Plant-powered and ready to use, this spray kills, repels, and prevents ants, roaches, fleas, and ticks. It also works on flies, moths, earwigs, spiders, and other household pests. With four clean scents to choose from: peppermint, cedarwood, lemongrass, and rosemary, it’s made with steam-distilled essential oils and without artificial colors, dyes, or fragrances. Safe for use around pets and family when used as directed, it meets the same effectiveness standards as conventional products. Use it for whole-house protection or targeted applications. For roaches and palmetto bugs, spray baseboards and hiding areas, and spray visible bugs directly. They’ll crawl away and die.
How plant-powered Wondercide products work
Wondercide’s products use the power of nature to send cockroaches packing. Here’s what they do:
- Kill by contact: Essential oils block their octopamine receptors which control vital systems so they die. The sprays also fill breathing spericals, suffocating the roaches.
- Repel: Indoor Pest Control scents create a barrier cockroaches don’t like to mess with so they avoid treated areas.
- Help prevent re-infestation: Consistent use makes your home less appealing to roaches.
Tips for long-term cockroach prevention
Pair Wondercide products with these easy steps to keep cockroaches out for good:
- Seal entry points: Use caulk to close up gaps around windows, doors, and pipes.
- Maintain cleanliness: Keep floors, counters, and food storage areas tidy.
- Eliminate moisture: Fix leaky pipes and reduce humidity.
- Declutter: Get rid of unnecessary stuff that could give them places to hide.
Protect your pack® with Wondercide
Cockroaches are common, especially in the winter, but they don’t have to take up home in your abode. Wondercide’s plant-powered solutions make it easy to take control, protect your home, and bring back your peace of mind. Combine Wondercide sprays with smart prevention tips, and you’ll have a happy home in no time–minus the roaches.
