How Long Does It Really Take to Get Rid of Roaches for Good?

Hey everyone!

I’ve been battling a roach infestation in my apartment for a few months now, and I’m starting to feel overwhelmed. I’ve tried a few over-the-counter solutions, but nothing seems to work for long. I know roaches can be pretty resilient, and I’ve heard various timelines from different people.

From what I understand, a full extermination could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the infestation and the methods used. Here are a few specific points I’d love to get your thoughts on:

  1. How long did it take for you to completely eliminate roaches from your home?
  2. What methods did you find most effective (professional exterminators, DIY traps, etc.)?
  3. How can I prevent them from coming back after I think I’ve gotten rid of them for good?

Looking forward to hearing your experiences and tips!

Hey @Homeowner88! I had a similar issue a couple of years ago. I hired a professional exterminator, and it took about three visits over six weeks to completely get rid of them. They used a combination of sprays and gel baits, which seemed to work well.

I tried the DIY route first, and it took me almost three months to see a real reduction. I used boric acid mixed with sugar as bait and set traps around the kitchen. It wasn’t easy, but being persistent paid off!

I think it’s crucial to consider the methods carefully. I read somewhere that roach baits are more effective than sprays because they take the bait back to their nest. I used those and saw improvements in about a month.

I did a mix of both; I used sprays for immediate effect and baits for long-term control. It took about six weeks to see a significant decrease, but I still had to stay vigilant for a few more months.

To prevent them from coming back, sealing any cracks and crevices is crucial. I also made sure to keep food stored properly and clean up any spills promptly. That made a significant difference for me!

I agree, RoachWarrior! Also, regularly taking out the trash and avoiding leaving dirty dishes out overnight helps a lot. It sounds like small steps, but they add up!

Is it worth it to hire a professional, though? I’m hesitant to spend the money if I can handle it myself. What do you all think?

I was in the same boat, @SmartMoneySaver. I did my research, and while DIY can save money, having a pro usually ensures a more thorough job. Sometimes, worth the investment if it saves you the hassle in the long run.