If there was a prize for the most disgusting pest, the cockroach would win.

Cockroaches are typically dark brown in color and as long as 2 inches in length. They are a common pest in homes from Florida to California, where they delight in feasting on improperly bagged household trash and leftover pet food.

The most common types of cockroaches in the U.S. are the American and German cockroaches. The American cockroach is brown to reddish brown with a maximum size of 2.1 inches. The German cockroach is pale brown and about an inch in size.

Signs that a home has cockroaches:

• Fecal droppings — One of the telltale signs of a cockroach infestation is the presence of small, dark droppings that resemble ground coffee or pepper. These are usually found near hiding places or along their travel paths.

• Omnipresent odor — Cockroaches emit a distinctive musty, oily odor, which becomes more noticeable when their numbers increase. A strong, unpleasant smell may suggest an infestation.

• Nocturnal activity — Cockroaches prefer dark, tight spaces and usually avoid light. If you observe cockroaches during daylight hours, it could signal an infestation, as these nocturnal creatures are typically active at night.

• Visible cockroaches — If you see cockroaches scurrying around your home, especially in the kitchen or bathroom, it’s a clear sign of an infestation. They multiply rapidly, so even a few sightings can indicate a larger problem.

• Egg casings — Cockroach egg casings, known as oothecae, are often left behind in hidden areas. These are small, brownish, and resemble purse-shaped capsules. Finding these is a strong indicator of an infestation.

• Feeding damage — Cockroaches are not picky eaters and can leave behind chewed or gnawed food packaging. Look for signs of damaged paper, cardboard, and even fabrics.

Things to look out for that may encourage a cockroach infestation:

• Food debris — Leaving food scraps or dirty dishes out overnight is an open invitation for cockroaches. Cleaning up food debris promptly helps deter them.

• Clutter — Cockroaches love clutter as it provides them with hiding spots and safe pathways. Decluttering your home can make it less attractive to these pests.

• Cracks and gaps — Cracks in walls, flooring, and windows provide easy access points for cockroaches. Sealing these openings can help prevent infestations.

• Moisture — Cockroaches are drawn to damp and humid environments. Fixing leaks and ensuring proper ventilation in areas like bathrooms and kitchens can discourage them.

• Trash management — Leaving trash cans uncovered or not emptying them regularly can attract cockroaches. Use sealed containers and take out the trash consistently.

• Pet food — Leaving pet food out overnight can also attract cockroaches. Try to feed pets at specific times and clean up any uneaten food.

Preventing a cockroach infestation involves identifying the signs of their presence and taking proactive measures to create an environment less conducive to these unwanted guests.

To help keep your home pest-free, make sure all garbage bags and trash cans are tightly sealed to eliminate food sources. Pick up or cover uneaten pet food or store it until the next meal time.

Choose HomeTeam Pest Defense for a cockroach-free home

As a homeowner who’s sick of these pesky intruders, you’ve probably looked up “How to get rid of cockroaches?” or “How to prevent cockroaches from entering my space?” online at least once. Well, you’ve come to the right place!

HomeTeam Pest Defense understands that a cockroach-free home is essential for your peace of mind. With over 25 years experience, more than 2,000 employees, and 57 branch locations, our mission is to protect homes and improve communities.We perform over 2,000,000 services each year, delivering a stellar experience every time. Our team is committed to serving you.

Don’t let cockroaches invade your space! Let HomeTeam perform a thorough inspection of your home and perimeter and identify potential entry points as well as harborage areas. Our technicians will treat live infestations and recommend a pest management plan to help keep your home pest-free.