Place sticky traps to monitor populations

What to Do

Place cardboard sticky traps (glue boards) behind refrigerators, under sinks, near plumbing penetrations, and along baseboards in kitchens and bathrooms. Check traps weekly and record catch numbers to track the infestation over time.

Why It Works

Sticky traps are the cornerstone of IPM monitoring. They tell you where cockroaches are most active (guiding bait placement), which species you have (critical since treatment differs), and whether control measures are working (declining catches over weeks). This replaces guesswork with data.

Tips

• Traps alone will not eliminate an infestation — they are a monitoring tool, not a control method
• Place traps flush against walls where cockroaches travel
• Date each trap when placed so you can compare catches over time
• If trap catches increase after baiting, the bait placement or product may need adjustment
• Cost: $5-15 for a 12-pack