10 ways customers can help control cockroaches

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How many times have customers asked, Why do I have cockroaches? Although there’s no way to know for sure until after a thorough inspection, and even then you may not know conclusively, you can suggest ways they can help prevent an infestation. Because cockroaches need water, food and harborages to thrive, here are 10 tips on how customers can do their part:

1. Take out the garbage every day, whether in a residential or commercial setting, and keep garbage in receptacles with tight-fitting lids.
2. Wipe off surfaces — such as counters, tables, stoves and microwaves — where food is prepared and eaten after every meal.
3. Sweep and mop floors to eliminate crumbs, dropped food and spills.
4. Store food in tight-lidded containers, especially if it will be kept in the pantry or on the counter.
5. Wash dishes after using them, and do not leave dirty dishes in the sink.
6. Clean up around pet food bowls regularly.
7. Repair leaks under sinks and around faucets and toilets.
8. Seal openings in door and window frames, and around pipes leading outdoors or to adjacent apartments.
9. Recycle cardboard boxes, and store items in plastic bins instead.
10. Reduce clutter from newspapers and magazines, and dirty laundry to eliminate places for cockroaches to hide.