Does Bleach Kill co*ckroaches [Yes At Some Extent] (2024)

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co*ckroaches can be a major problem for homeowners. Because of this, many homeowners are always looking for ways to get rid of these pests. Bleach is a common household cleaner known for killing germs and cleaning things. But does bleach kill co*ckroaches?

Yes, Bleach kills co*ckroaches on contact, but it’s not the ideal way to get rid of them. How well, it works depends on a wide range of factors. Sodium hypochlorite is a strong chemical that is often found in bleach. In high concentrations, it can be harmful to people and animals.

This article will talk about how well bleach works against co*ckroaches and how it kills them.

Concentrate VS Water Mixture Bleach

Here is a table that summarizes the main differences between concentrated bleach and bleach mixed with water:

Concentrate BleachWater Mixture Bleach
Has a higher amount of sodium hypochlorite in it.A smaller amount of sodium hypochlorite is in it.
With no added water, this product is sold at full strength.A bleach solution that has been diluted by adding water.
A very effective way to clean and kill germs.Used often to clean and disinfect homes.
Due to its high concentration, it is more dangerous to work with.less dangerous than working with concentrated bleach.
It can irritate the skin, make breathing hard, and even cause chemical burns.less likely to cause problems with the skin or lungs,
More effective at getting rid of certain bacteria or viruses.Some bacteria or viruses may be less likely to be killed by them.
When used as the main way to get rid of pests, it can be dangerous and put people and animals at risk of getting sick.It is recommended to use bleach with other pest control methods to get rid of a whole co*ckroach infestation.

Does Chlorine Bleach Get Rid Of co*ckroaches?

Bleach containing chlorine is ineffective against co*ckroaches. Bleach may kill some co*ckroaches when it comes in contact with them, but it does not have a lasting effect. This means that bleach does not kill co*ckroaches that come in contact with surfaces that have already been treated.

According to the journal of Entomology, researchers examined how well different disinfectants, like chlorine bleach, worked against the American co*ckroach. They found chlorine bleach killed some co*ckroaches but wasn’t as effective as other disinfectants like phenyl and ethanol.

It is also known that co*ckroaches can live in harsh conditions, like being around chemicals or radiation. So, bleach might kill a few co*ckroaches, but it probably won’t get rid of an infestation.

Does Oxygen Bleach Get Rid Of co*ckroaches?

Oxygen bleach, also called sodium percarbonate, does not work to get rid of co*ckroaches. Oxygen bleach is a type of bleach that releases oxygen when mixed with water. It is often used as a laundry detergent or to clean.

Even though oxygen bleach might kill some germs, it doesn’t kill co*ckroaches very well. co*ckroaches are tricky bugs that can live in harsh conditions, like being around chemicals and radiation.

So, the best way to get rid of co*ckroaches is to use a combination of methods, such as keeping things clean, sealing off places they can get in, and using insecticides and baits aimed at them.

How To Use Bleach To Repel co*ckroaches?

Bleach is not the most effective way to get rid of or keep away co*ckroaches, but here are some general steps for using bleach as a possible pest control method:

  • Find places where co*ckroaches might be hiding, like cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and cabinets.
  • Follow the instructions on the bleach bottle on how much water to add to how much bleach.
  • Focus on places where co*ckroaches are known to hide or travel and spray or pour the bleach solution there.
  • Be careful not to mix bleach with other chemicals, as this can make dangerous fumes.
  • Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to get rid of any leftover bleach.
  • Repeat the process as needed and on a regular basis to keep the area clean and keep co*ckroaches away.

Does Bleach Kill co*ckroach Eggs?

Bleach can kill co*ckroach eggs as soon as it comes in contact with them, but it might not be able to get to all of the eggs in a hidden infestation and kill them all. co*ckroaches usually lay their eggs in hidden and safe places, like cracks and crevices, where bleach might not be able to reach.

Even if bleach kills some eggs, it doesn’t have a lasting effect. This means it won’t kill eggs or newly hatched nymphs that aren’t exposed to it. So, bleach may kill some co*ckroach eggs, but it is not a reliable or complete way to get rid of a co*ckroach problem.

How Long Does It Take To Kill A co*ckroach With Bleach?

The time it takes bleach to kill a co*ckroach depends on several variables, including the bleach concentration, size, and length of time it is exposed to the bleach.

In most cases, bleach will kill a co*ckroach as soon as it touches it, but it may take a few minutes. Some co*ckroaches may be able to survive contact with bleach if they are not directly exposed to it or if they can escape before it kills them.

But it’s important to remember that bleach alone is not a good way to get rid of co*ckroaches. Bleach is not a long-term solution, and it may only get rid of some of the co*ckroaches if they hide in hard-to-reach places.

How To Kill Roaches With Bleach And Insecticides?

Mixing Bleach and insecticides is not a good idea because this can make toxic fumes that hurt people and animals. Instead, the best way to eliminate co*ckroaches is to use these methods alone or with other methods.

Here are some general steps for killing roaches separately with Bleach and insecticides:

To Use BleachTo Use Insecticide
Find the places where co*ckroaches exist.
In a spray bottle, combine Bleach and water.
Spray the bleach solution into the areas you’ve marked, paying special attention to cracks and crevices, baseboards, and areas around appliances.
Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to get rid of any leftover bleach.
Find the places where you know or think there are co*ckroaches, like cracks and crevices in the walls, floors, and cabinets.
Choose an insecticide that says it will kill co*ckroaches on the label. Use the insecticide in places where you know or think there are co*ckroaches.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how often to apply, how many times to apply, and how to clean up.

How to Use Bleach to Kill co*ckroaches In A Safe Way?

Bleach can kill co*ckroaches, but it is important to use it safely so you, your family, and your pets don’t get hurt. Here are some tips on how to kill co*ckroaches with bleach in a safe way:

  • Wear gloves and glasses to protect your skin and eyes from irritation.
  • Mixing bleach with other cleaning products or insecticides can make toxic fumes.
  • When using the bleach solution, focus on places where co*ckroaches are known to hide.
  • Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to remove any leftover bleach.
  • Open the windows or use a fan to move air through the room to eliminate smells.
  • Keep pets and kids out of the area while you use bleach, and wait until the place is completely dry before letting them back in.
  • Repeat the process as needed and regularly to keep the area clean and keep co*ckroaches away.

How To Get Rid Of co*ckroaches With Bleach Alternatives?

There are several alternatives to bleach for co*ckroach extermination. Some potential solutions are listed below:

Boric Acid

Boric acid is a natural substance that can use to kill co*ckroaches. It works by hurting their outer shell and making them lose water. If you mix boric acid with sugar or flour, you can make co*ckroach bait.

Diatomaceous Earth

co*ckroaches can kill with this natural substance made from fossilized algae. It works by cutting and drying out the exoskeleton. Diatomaceous earth can be put in cracks and crevices in walls, cabinets, and other places where co*ckroaches might hide.

Essential Oils

co*ckroaches are naturally repelled by essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle, and then spray the mixture in places where you know or think there are co*ckroaches.

Vinegar

Vinegar can use to clean naturally and to keep co*ckroaches away. Pour equal amounts of vinegar and water into a spray bottle and use it to spray co*ckroach-infested areas.

Sticky Traps

co*ckroaches can be caught with sticky traps, which are not dangerous. Put sticky traps along walls and in cabinets where co*ckroaches live.

FAQs

Do co*ckroaches Like The Smell Of Bleach?

co*ckroaches don’t like the smell of bleach. In fact, co*ckroaches can be scared off by the strong smell of bleach, which makes it a good way to keep them away and kill them. But it’s important to remember that bleach can be a good way to get rid of co*ckroaches. However, it should be used cautiously to avoid harming people or pets.

Does Pouring Bleach Down The Drain Get Rid Of Roaches?

Pouring bleach down the drain might kill some roaches in the pipes or near the drain opening. There are many places in a house where roaches can live, and pouring bleach down the drain won’t get to all of them.
Also, using bleach in this way could hurt your plumbing system in the long run. Bleach is corrosive, which means that too much of it can damage pipes and cause them to leak.

Can Bleach Cause Any Harm To Humans, Pets, Or The Environment?

According to Environmental Science and Pollution Research, if not used correctly, bleach can harm humans, animals, and the environment. It can irritate the skin and eyes, make breathing hard, and cause allergic reactions in people.
Many animals can’t handle bleach, and being around it can hurt their health. If bleach is thrown away incorrectly, it can harm aquatic life and plants and release harmful chemicals into the air. Follow the directions carefully, wear protective gear, don’t mix with other chemicals, and get rid of it the right way to reduce the risks.

Does Bleach Get Rid Of co*ckroaches Permanently?

No, bleach does not get rid of co*ckroaches permanently. Bleach may kill some roaches when it comes in contact with them, but it doesn’t have any long-term effects on roach populations.
In short, bleach might temporarily reduce the number of roaches in an area, but it is not a good long-term solution for getting rid of roaches.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, bleach can kill co*ckroaches if it touches them directly, but it is not a good long-term way to get rid of a co*ckroach problem. Bleach doesn’t kill co*ckroaches or keep them from returning, and it doesn’t work on co*ckroach eggs, either.

Furthermore, bleach can hurt people, animals, and the environment if it isn’t used right. So, the best way to get rid of co*ckroaches is to use integrated pest management techniques like cleaning, sealing entry points, and setting up bait stations or using insecticides made just for co*ckroaches.

References

Syed R, Manzoor F, Adalat R, Abdul-Sattar A, Syed A. Laboratory Evaluation of Toxicity of Insecticide Formulations from Different Classes against American co*ckroach (Dictyoptera: Blattidae). J Arthropod Borne Dis. 2013 Dec 18;8(1):21-34. PMID: 25629062; PMCID: PMC4289508.

Parveen, N., Chowdhury, S. & Goel, S. Environmental impacts of the widespread use of chlorine-based disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic.Environ Sci Pollut Res29, 85742–85760 (2022).

Does Bleach Kill co*ckroaches [Yes At Some Extent] (2024)

FAQs

Does Bleach Kill co*ckroaches [Yes At Some Extent]? ›

Yes, bleach can kill co*ckroaches through ingestion or drowning. However, it is not as potent, safe, or as easy to use as traditional insecticide chemicals specifically intended to kill roaches.

Can a co*ckroach survive bleach? ›

Roaches will die if they are drowned in bleach, however you would need to get every single roach in your home, one by one, and dunk them to get the job done.

Does bleach kill roaches instantly? ›

What Kills Roaches Instantly? Bleach may not kill roaches, but other pesticides, like boric acid, are much more effective. Boric acid can be sprinkled in areas that co*ckroaches frequent, or even on the roaches themselves. Unlike bleach, boric acid sticks to roaches.

Does Lysol bleach kill roaches? ›

Yes, Lysol does kill roaches! It does this by suffocating them. Roaches breathe through openings on their back called spiracles. The Lysol penetrates the spiracles, causing them to choke and die.

What kills roaches the best? ›

Boric acid: Used correctly, boric acid is one of the most effective roach killers. It's odorless, has low toxicity to pets, and since it isn't repellent to roaches, they will not seek to avoid it, crawling through it repeatedly until it kills them.

How do roaches feel about bleach? ›

Household bleach is commonly used as a cleaning agent and gives off a strong smell that co*ckroaches hate. Filth and cleanliness don't mix at all, which makes the physical act of killing co*ckroaches with bleach very hard.

How do you get rid of roaches in 2 hours? ›

5 Easy Ways to Get Rid of co*ckroaches Overnight
  1. Boric Acid. Boric acid is a popular method for killing co*ckroach infestations. ...
  2. Borax. Borax works in much the same way as boric acid when it comes to how to get rid of co*ckroaches. ...
  3. Diatomaceous Earth. ...
  4. Insecticide Spray. ...
  5. Baited Traps.
Jun 9, 2023

How do you get rid of roaches in 3 days? ›

The best way to get rid of roaches fast is to sanitize your home, eliminate hiding spots and stagnant water, store food in airtight containers, and use glue strips, bait, boric acid, or liquid concentrates.

What is the best DIY roach killer? ›

Studies have found a boric acid and sugar combination to be a very effective killer of roaches, but more readily available is Borax mixed with sugar, which also gets the job done. Simply mix three parts Borax to one part sugar for bait, and be sure to keep your pets out of the vicinity.

What kills roaches on contact? ›

Soap and Water

Just like the fabric softener solution, mixing soap with water can kill roaches on contact.

How do I disinfect my house from co*ckroaches? ›

Wash hard washable surfaces with cleanser (ammonia and water works well). Dust out of sight spaces with boric acid powder. Dust and seal any cracks and openings closed with caulk. Use roach baits near hiding places like behind pictures and wall hangings, under sinks and undersides of furniture.

What smells keep roaches away? ›

You may love the smell of fresh citrus, but co*ckroaches hate the scent. That means you can use citrus scented cleaners in your kitchen and bathroom to chase any lingering roaches away. You can also keep a few citrus peels around your home in strategic places.

What is the strongest roach killer? ›

The best roach killer, based on our research, is the advion 383920 co*ckroach Gel Bait; a commercial-grade roach killer set that is easy to use and lasts months after application. It can kill all sorts of co*ckroaches, including the American and German variety, and it's even safe to use if you have pets or kids.

What smell do roaches hate? ›

Smells that roaches hate: a quickfire summary

Oregano, rosemary, mint, eucalyptus, lemongrass and catnip are great herby options. Citrus oils work brilliantly too. And surprisingly, lower concentrations – 2.5 parts per hundred – seem to work best as deterrents.

What makes roaches run away? ›

Roach Repellents

Peppermint oil, cedarwood oil, and cypress oil are essential oils that effectively keep co*ckroaches at bay. Additionally, these insects hate the smell of crushed bay leaves and steer clear of coffee grounds. If you want to try a natural way to kill them, combine powdered sugar and boric acid.

What does baking soda do to roaches? ›

A concoction of baking soda and sugar is an effective co*ckroach killer and controls the multiplication of these pests. Sugar acts as a bait to attract co*ckroaches and the baking soda kills them. You just need to identify their hideouts and sprinkle this mixture in those corners.

What draws out co*ckroaches? ›

co*ckroaches seek places where they can find ample food. Food crumbs, spills, leftovers, and pet food are the most common food sources. Kitchen trash and grease on stovetops and countertops can be inviting for roaches, and they may also get into stored food items.

Can co*ckroaches live after being crushed? ›

This is also why a simple swipe with a newspaper will not successfully kill them.” co*ckroaches can withstand very serious injuries and survive without food for months, qualities that also serve to make them such a durable animal.

Do dead roaches attract roaches? ›

Does Killing a co*ckroach Attract More? Yes, killing a co*ckroach can attract more to the area! There is an acid released by co*ckroaches when they die that can be smelled from a distance and attracts more of them to the area.

What keeps roaches away at night? ›

Keep your sleeping quarters free of food and moisture. Reduce clutter. Regularly empty your trash. Make sure all openings to the outside (windows and doors, primarily) are well sealed.

What time do roaches go to bed? ›

co*ckroaches are most likely to be active about four hours after dark and enter a period of immobility just afterwards. This immobility period is similar to what humans would call “sleeping.”

How many days does it take to get rid of roaches? ›

Once a roach has found and consumed bait, it typically dies within 1-3 days. A substantial reduction in the infestation overall should be apparent within a few weeks. With co*ckroach baits, it usually is not necessary to empty kitchen cabinets or cover food preparation surfaces before treatment.

Can I spray for roaches everyday? ›

Once the problem is under control and you do not see any more roaches, it is recommended to spray something once every 30 to 60 days inside and outside your home to help keep the problem from coming back. Spraying inside and outside every 30 to 60 days will also keep all other pests out of your home.

What household cleaner do roaches hate? ›

Pine-Sol and Fabuloso are strong, all-purpose household cleaners. Similar to bleach, these products kill roaches on contact. Some homeowners suggest spraying Pine-Sol around the outside of your house to keep co*ckroaches away.

What is the fastest natural roach killer? ›

Baking soda is one of the fastest, easiest ways to get rid of roaches – and it's probably something you already have in your pantry. To make a DIY roach bait, dice a handful of onions and sprinkle them with baking soda. Place this appetizer in a shallow dish anywhere you've noticed roach activity.

How often should you spray peppermint oil for roaches? ›

Since co*ckroaches are nocturnal, your best bet is to reapply each night before you go to bed. That way, when the roaches are most active, your peppermint oil repellent is at its strongest.

How long can roaches live in a clean house? ›

Did you know that roaches can live for up to a month without food but only a week without water? No matter how clean your home is, if there's some excess moisture somewhere, it could very well be an attractive invitation for your neighborhood roaches.

Do roaches come out after cleaning? ›

It's common to see roaches after a pest control treatment. They come out of their hiding spots because they are dying. You can use a vacuum cleaner to clean up the ones you see, but you don't need to use any chemicals. Expect to see them for up to two weeks after the roach spraying treatment.

How often should you spray to keep roaches away? ›

Don't forget to spray and seal entry points.

Cracks, crevices, and holes in and around baseboards, flooring, walling, foundations, doors, windows, screens and seals are how roaches usually get inside our homes. It's crucial to spray these potential entryways weekly, every 3-4 days, or more often as necessary.

Can a roach infested house be saved? ›

It is absolutely possible. Baits are extremely useful in this situation because they get straight to the source of the infestation. Once the affected roaches die there, their brethren start to devour them and get affected by the poison, too. Within a few weeks, it's completely possible to deal with the infestation.

How do you find a roach nest? ›

Roaches live in areas that are dark, damp, secluded, and close to food. To find aroach nest, grab a flashlight and small mirror so that you can see inside dark, small spaces. Start by examining common spots for harborages in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and crawl spaces.

What kills roaches and their eggs? ›

Diatomaceous earth is a natural way to deal with co*ckroach. It is available in fine powder form that sticks to roaches body and kill them by dehydration process. Diatomaceous eath is also very effective in killing the roach eggs. It is best method to use in fine areas, as DE fine powder can reach inside the cracks.

Do roaches not like Windex? ›

For co*ckroaches, window cleaner can make them temporarily unconscious so that you can squash them. This works on initial contact, but Windex will not continue to kill bugs after it has dried.

What smell do roaches love? ›

co*ckroaches are attracted to your home by the smell of food. They are most attracted to starch, sugar, grease, meat, and cheese. Rotting fruits and vegetables can also give off a very pungent smell that will definitely attract these pests.

What liquid repels roaches? ›

Tea Tree Oil. Many homeowners report that roaches don't like tea tree oil. You can combine 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water with a few drops of tea tree oil and apply the mixture with a spray bottle to deter co*ckroaches from specific areas.

Will bleach keep bugs away? ›

Bleach is more than just a powerful cleanser; it is also a powerful pesticide. It can get rid of various pests, including drain flies and mosquitoes.

Can co*ckroaches survive chemicals? ›

A recent study in the Journal of Economic Entomology, for instance, shows that German co*ckroaches in some southern California residential units can survive exposure to five types of commonly used pesticides.

What are co*ckroaches afraid of? ›

It's a fact that co*ckroaches are afraid of humans and other mammals or animals that are bigger than them. They see us as predators and that fear triggers their instinct to scatter away. However, they dislike strong and distinctive scents such as citrus, peppermint, lavender and vinegar.

What DIY keeps roaches away? ›

Many homeowners report that roaches don't like tea tree oil. You can combine 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water with a few drops of tea tree oil and apply the mixture with a spray bottle to deter co*ckroaches from specific areas.

Will Lysol keep roaches away? ›

That being said, if you only have the occasional co*ckroach, then Lysol might be enough to take care of your small infestation. Because Lysol has weaking killing power, but Lysol's smell can repel roaches, it might be enough!

What is toxic to co*ckroaches? ›

If you discover a co*ckroach problem, boric acid , boric acid , boric acid is the most effective direct control method. Apply boric acid (a 99% formulation) to cracks and crevices where roaches hide – inside and behind cabinets and appliances, wall cavities, under the sink, etc… Roaches are killed in three to ten days.

Does cleanliness keep roaches away? ›

One of the best methods for how to keep roaches away is to clean up food scraps, including tiny crumbs that you might overlook at a glance. Armed with a broom and a vacuum, give your floors a thorough cleaning regularly. Make sure to pull appliances away from the wall to clean underneath them.

How long do co*ckroaches live after being sprayed? ›

It's normal to see dead roaches for up to two weeks after the treatment. It's also common to see more roaches even. This is because your pest company has sprayed their normal hiding places with pesticides, making them inhospitable to the roaches.

References

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