Vacuuming to remove cockroaches

Dr. Tim Husen, BCE, PHE, Southeastern U.S. Technical Services Representative, BASF Professional and Specialty Solutions

Cockroach management programs always should begin and end with improved sanitation, vacuuming with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter-equipped vacuum, and pre- and post-program monitoring with glue boards.

One misconception about the “gray” area between the beginning and end is that residual liquid sprays and baits are mutually exclusive control measures. This is not always true. There are many non-deterrent liquid residual products (such as non-repellent or non-pyrethroid dilutable products) that can be used in the same application sites, or even underneath or on top of granular or gel cockroach baits. Check the labeling of your liquid control products to see whether this use is recommended.

Lastly, avoid using baits and dilutable residual sprays that contain the same active ingredient. This practice will help combat potential active ingredient resistance.