Avoid foggers and baseboard sprays

What to Do

Do not use bug bombs (foggers) or spray insecticides along baseboards for cockroach control. These are the most common DIY mistakes and actually make infestations worse.

Why It Works

Foggers cannot control where chemicals go. They only treat exposed surfaces and never reach the cracks, wall voids, and hidden spaces where cockroaches actually live. Worse, foggers scatter cockroaches into new areas of the home, spreading the infestation. Baseboard sprays repel cockroaches away from treated surfaces and away from bait placements, defeating the purpose of baiting. University extension services (Penn State, UC IPM, University of Kentucky) all recommend against both methods.

Tips

• Fogger misuse has caused house fires and explosions from gas pilot lights
• Ultrasonic repellent devices are also ineffective — no scientific evidence supports them
• The money spent on foggers and sprays is better invested in gel baits, boric acid, and IGRs
• If tempted to fog, hire a professional instead