Specify cleaning instructions for better cockroach management

Dr. Janis Reed, BCE, Technical Services Manager, Product Development Team, Control Solutions Inc.

What is “normal?” When communicating with your clients, are you considering their “normal?” It’s often not enough to say, “Clean the kitchen;” to your client the kitchen may be clean. It’s so much more important to be specific when addressing what you see needs attention. Pick one thing to ask your customer to focus on, such as:

• Maybe the trash needs to be taken out?
• Perhaps the area around the cooktop is greasy or has a buildup of food debris?
• Perhaps debris under the refrigerator/stove/dishwasher needs to be cleaned up?

Give your clients specific instructions on what they should do today and in the future to further your cockroach control efforts. Be specific! While sanitation isn’t a deal-breaker for cockroach management, it can make the process faster and more efficient for all involved. Don’t be afraid to ask your clients for what you need. Often, they are willing to help — they just aren’t sure how.