Cockroach killers, gel baits and traps

Cockroaches hide in warm, dark gaps behind appliances, under sinks and near boilers, and often show up when the heating comes on. The most effective DIY approach combines a gel bait, which roaches carry back to the colony, with sticky traps to monitor them and a residual spray for cracks and entry points.

Our top picks
• Cockroach Killer Gel Bait: targets the hidden colony, not just the roaches you see
• NOPE! CP Cockroach Killer Spray: odourless residual spray for cracks and skirting
• ROSHIELD Cockroach Bait Traps (6): enclosed traps for monitoring and catching
• Super Ninja Cockroach Traps (4-pack): a budget sticky-trap option

How to get the best results
• Put gel bait in small dots in cracks near where you see roaches, and don’t spray over it.
• Put sticky traps behind the fridge, cooker and under the sink to find the hotspots.
• Fix dripping taps and clear crumbs, because roaches need water and food.
• Keep treating for several weeks, as eggs hatch in waves.

Read next: Why cockroaches show up when you turn the heating on · Spotted a cockroach after dark? What it means

When to call a professional: if you’re seeing roaches in daylight, in several rooms, or in a flat where the problem spreads between properties.

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