Cockroaches are one of the most common household pests in The Gambia, especially in the rainy season. They carry bacteria, contaminate food and can trigger allergies. Here is how to get rid of cockroaches and stop them coming back.
Why cockroaches come into homes
They need three things: food, water and hiding places. Crumbs, open bins, dripping taps and cluttered cupboards give them all three.
8 ways to prevent cockroaches
- Wipe kitchen surfaces and sweep up crumbs every night.
- Do not leave dirty dishes overnight.
- Store food, including rice and sugar, in sealed containers.
- Use bins with tight lids and empty them daily.
- Fix dripping taps and leaking pipes.
- Seal cracks around pipes, skirting boards and cupboards.
- Clear clutter such as old boxes and newspapers, which are favourite hiding places.
- Clean behind and under the fridge and cooker.
When to call for fumigation
If you see cockroaches during the day, find droppings in cupboards, or they keep returning after you have cleaned, the infestation is established. Professional fumigation treats the hiding places you cannot reach.
Fumigation plus deep cleaning works best
Treatment kills the pests, but a deep clean removes the food sources, eggs and droppings that attract new ones. First Arch offers both, for homes, offices and properties before move-in.
Safety first: always test products on a hidden area, follow the label, and never mix bleach with other cleaning products.
