How to Clean Your Floors to Instantly Eliminate Cockroaches and Roaches

### **Steps to Clean Your Floors and Eliminate Cockroaches**

#### **1. Sweep and Vacuum Thoroughly**
Start by removing debris, crumbs, and food particles from the floors. Use a broom or vacuum to sweep up every corner, especially around baseboards, cabinets, and underneath furniture—places that often accumulate unnoticed dirt and food.

– **Tip**: Pay close attention to the areas near food preparation zones, such as under the dining table or around the stove, where crumbs and oil residue can build up.

#### **2. Mop the Floors with a Powerful Cleaner**
Once you’ve swept and vacuumed, mop your floors using a powerful cleaning solution. A mix of **hot water** and **dish soap** can do wonders to break down oils and grime. Alternatively, use an **all-purpose cleaner** or a natural solution like **vinegar** and **baking soda**. Here’s a simple recipe for an effective roach-fighting cleaner:

– **1 cup of white vinegar**
– **1 cup of water**
– **1 tablespoon of baking soda**
– **5-10 drops of essential oils** (peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus are excellent choices—cockroaches dislike these smells)

This homemade solution not only cleans but also leaves a fresh scent that repels roaches.

#### **3. Focus on Areas With Moisture or Grime**
For areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms or kitchens, be sure to scrub the floor thoroughly with a brush to lift any built-up grime. Pay extra attention to grout lines, behind appliances, and underneath the sink, where food waste and water are commonly found.

– **Tip**: Cockroaches tend to hide in moist, dark places, so eliminating water sources on your floor is crucial to keeping them away.

#### **4. Disinfect and Deodorize**
Disinfecting your floors after mopping is another important step in keeping cockroaches at bay. A mild disinfectant can help kill germs and remove any lingering scents that might attract pests. Some commercial floor cleaners have added disinfectant properties, but if you prefer a DIY approach, use a mixture of **water** and **bleach** (1/4 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water) to disinfect high-traffic areas.

Be sure to dry the floors completely, as cockroaches love damp environments.

#### **5. Keep Entry Points Clean**
While you’re cleaning, it’s essential to also address the entry points for cockroaches. Cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards can provide entryways for roaches to get in. After your floors are clean, take the time to seal any potential entry points with caulk, weather stripping, or adhesive strips.

#### **6. Maintain a Clean Floor Routine**
Cleaning your floors regularly is key to preventing further infestations. Sweep and mop at least once a week to keep your home free of food scraps and moisture that attract roaches. Additionally, be vigilant about cleaning spills immediately, especially in high-traffic areas where food is prepared or consumed.

—

### **Additional Tips to Eliminate Roaches from Your Home**

– **Remove Food Sources**: Keep food in sealed containers, and clean dishes immediately after meals. Cockroaches are especially attracted to sugary and greasy foods, so avoid leaving them out overnight.
– **Use Roach Repellents**: Natural repellents like **bay leaves**, **citrus peels**, and essential oils (peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus) can be placed near your kitchen and pantry to deter roaches.
– **Set Traps**: Sticky traps or bait stations can be placed in areas where you’ve noticed roaches. These traps not only help monitor the level of infestation but also help catch the roaches.
– **Maintain Cleanliness in Other Areas**: Don’t forget that cockroaches can hide anywhere—check your cupboards, under appliances, and in dark corners of your home. Keep all areas clean and decluttered.

—

### **Conclusion**

While cleaning your floors is an essential step in eliminating cockroaches, it is not a one-time fix. Consistent cleaning and eliminating food and water sources will help create an environment that is less inviting to pests. By following the steps above and staying vigilant, you’ll be able to keep your floors clean and your home roach-free for the long term.