Overview

• New advice highlights simple fly deterrents such as a vinegar–lemon surface spray, clove-studded citrus halves and clear water bags hung at doors or windows.
• Pest-control sources identify prime roach refuges inside homes, including refrigerator gaskets and motors, under ovens, behind warm appliances, tile cracks, drains, poorly sealed pantries and pipe chases.
• Appliance upkeep is stressed for prevention, with deep cleaning, drying and short post-use ventilation of units, plus sealing gaps and keeping sponges and cloths from staying damp.
• Ecolab cautions that roaches can spread harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, noting that even a single sighting can trigger restaurant shutdowns under health inspections.
• Core prevention steps include rigorous cleaning, storing food in sealed containers, frequent trash removal and fixing leaks, with optional home traps such as sugar with baking soda or plant-based repellents, and professional extermination for persistent infestations.