Roach Pesticides

Follow instructions on the pesticide label. If you have not used a stored pesticide recently, reread the label before use.

What Type of Pesticide Should You Buy?

you can buy pesticide sprays, dusts, baits and traps that will help you control roaches. Buy a pesticide only if it is in the original manufacturer's can, bottle or box. Make sure the container has a label that lists the pesticide's chemical name and ingredients and directions for use. The label should say the pesticide is for roach control.

bait station

Baits are low-risk pesticides and work well for roach control. If you use a roach bait, do not use a spray in the same area since the spray may repel the roaches and prevent the bait from doing its job.

A light dusting of boric acid (another low-risk pesticide) can be used behind and under appliances and sinks. Boric acid and other pesticides should be used only according to the label's instructions. Do not use boric acid for roach control if the container does not say it can be used for roach control.

A pesticide labeled “FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY” should never be used inside your home.

NEVER buy pesticides that are NOT in their original, labeled containers.

Follow Pesticide Label Instructions!

Unfortunately, people can hurt themselves, their families and their pets if they don't use pesticides properly. The label on the container will tell you how to use the product safely. Follow all instructions for protecting yourself and others. Avoid getting the pesticide on your skin and do not breathe in pesticide sprays or dusts.

Use pesticides in areas where roaches are most likely to be hiding, such as cracks in walls, baseboards and in cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom (after you've emptied the cabinets and cleaned them out). Also, apply pesticides behind the stove and refrigerator. DO NOT apply pesticides on hot surfaces or on areas where food is prepared, such as kitchen counter tops or in areas where children or pets can come into contact with them.

Before using a pesticide, remove food, dishes, silverware and children's toys from the area to be sprayed. Return these things to the sprayed areas and cabinets only when the instructions on the label say it is OK to do so. If any pesticide gets on these things, wash them before you use them or someone might get sick. If you feel you or other family members have a health problem because of pesticides, contact your doctor or local poison control center.

If the pesticide needs to be mixed with water, the label will tell you how to mix it safely. Stronger is not better! If you add more pesticide to the water than the label says, the pesticide can hurt you and others. Do not mix pesticides together unless the label permits.

Store pesticides and other household chemicals out of children's reach. Read the label for the right way to throw away empty containers.

NEVER put pesticides in containers such as drink bottles, spray bottles or salt shakers to store, give away or sell. Some people have mistaken pesticides in other containers for something else and have poisoned themselves and others

Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Environmental Health, 525 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62761