Cockroaches can be a major problem for homeowners. Because of this, many homeowners are always looking for ways to get rid of these pests. Bleach is a common household cleaner known for killing germs and cleaning things. But does bleach kill cockroaches?
Yes, Bleach kills cockroaches on contact, but it’s not the ideal way to get rid of them. How well, it works depends on a wide range of factors. Sodium hypochlorite is a strong chemical that is often found in bleach. In high concentrations, it can be harmful to people and animals.
This article will talk about how well bleach works against cockroaches and how it kills them.
Concentrate VS Water Mixture Bleach
Here is a table that summarizes the main differences between concentrated bleach and bleach mixed with water:
| Concentrate Bleach | Water Mixture Bleach |
| Has a higher amount of sodium hypochlorite in it. | A smaller amount of sodium hypochlorite is in it. |
| With no added water, this product is sold at full strength. | A bleach solution that has been diluted by adding water. |
| A very effective way to clean and kill germs. | Used often to clean and disinfect homes. |
| Due to its high concentration, it is more dangerous to work with. | less dangerous than working with concentrated bleach. |
| It can irritate the skin, make breathing hard, and even cause chemical burns. | less likely to cause problems with the skin or lungs, |
| More effective at getting rid of certain bacteria or viruses. | Some bacteria or viruses may be less likely to be killed by them. |
| When used as the main way to get rid of pests, it can be dangerous and put people and animals at risk of getting sick. | It is recommended to use bleach with other pest control methods to get rid of a whole cockroach infestation. |
Does Chlorine Bleach Get Rid Of Cockroaches?
Bleach containing chlorine is ineffective against cockroaches. Bleach may kill some cockroaches when it comes in contact with them, but it does not have a lasting effect. This means that bleach does not kill cockroaches that come in contact with surfaces that have already been treated.
According to the journal of Entomology, researchers examined how well different disinfectants, like chlorine bleach, worked against the American cockroach. They found chlorine bleach killed some cockroaches but wasn’t as effective as other disinfectants like phenyl and ethanol.
It is also known that cockroaches can live in harsh conditions, like being around chemicals or radiation. So, bleach might kill a few cockroaches, but it probably won’t get rid of an infestation.
Does Oxygen Bleach Get Rid Of Cockroaches?
Oxygen bleach, also called sodium percarbonate, does not work to get rid of cockroaches. Oxygen bleach is a type of bleach that releases oxygen when mixed with water. It is often used as a laundry detergent or to clean.
Even though oxygen bleach might kill some germs, it doesn’t kill cockroaches very well. Cockroaches are tricky bugs that can live in harsh conditions, like being around chemicals and radiation.
So, the best way to get rid of cockroaches is to use a combination of methods, such as keeping things clean, sealing off places they can get in, and using insecticides and baits aimed at them.
How To Use Bleach To Repel Cockroaches?
Bleach is not the most effective way to get rid of or keep away cockroaches, but here are some general steps for using bleach as a possible pest control method:
- Find places where cockroaches might be hiding, like cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and cabinets.
- Follow the instructions on the bleach bottle on how much water to add to how much bleach.
- Focus on places where cockroaches are known to hide or travel and spray or pour the bleach solution there.
- Be careful not to mix bleach with other chemicals, as this can make dangerous fumes.
- Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to get rid of any leftover bleach.
- Repeat the process as needed and on a regular basis to keep the area clean and keep cockroaches away.
Does Bleach Kill Cockroach Eggs?
Bleach can kill cockroach eggs as soon as it comes in contact with them, but it might not be able to get to all of the eggs in a hidden infestation and kill them all. Cockroaches usually lay their eggs in hidden and safe places, like cracks and crevices, where bleach might not be able to reach.
Even if bleach kills some eggs, it doesn’t have a lasting effect. This means it won’t kill eggs or newly hatched nymphs that aren’t exposed to it. So, bleach may kill some cockroach eggs, but it is not a reliable or complete way to get rid of a cockroach problem.
How Long Does It Take To Kill A Cockroach With Bleach?
The time it takes bleach to kill a cockroach depends on several variables, including the bleach concentration, size, and length of time it is exposed to the bleach.
In most cases, bleach will kill a cockroach as soon as it touches it, but it may take a few minutes. Some cockroaches may be able to survive contact with bleach if they are not directly exposed to it or if they can escape before it kills them.
But it’s important to remember that bleach alone is not a good way to get rid of cockroaches. Bleach is not a long-term solution, and it may only get rid of some of the cockroaches if they hide in hard-to-reach places.
How To Kill Roaches With Bleach And Insecticides?
Mixing Bleach and insecticides is not a good idea because this can make toxic fumes that hurt people and animals. Instead, the best way to eliminate cockroaches is to use these methods alone or with other methods.
Here are some general steps for killing roaches separately with Bleach and insecticides:
| To Use Bleach | To Use Insecticide |
| Find the places where cockroaches exist. In a spray bottle, combine Bleach and water. Spray the bleach solution into the areas you’ve marked, paying special attention to cracks and crevices, baseboards, and areas around appliances. Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to get rid of any leftover bleach. | Find the places where you know or think there are cockroaches, like cracks and crevices in the walls, floors, and cabinets. Choose an insecticide that says it will kill cockroaches on the label. Use the insecticide in places where you know or think there are cockroaches. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how often to apply, how many times to apply, and how to clean up. |
How to Use Bleach to Kill Cockroaches In A Safe Way?
Bleach can kill cockroaches, but it is important to use it safely so you, your family, and your pets don’t get hurt. Here are some tips on how to kill cockroaches with bleach in a safe way:
- Wear gloves and glasses to protect your skin and eyes from irritation.
- Mixing bleach with other cleaning products or insecticides can make toxic fumes.
- When using the bleach solution, focus on places where cockroaches are known to hide.
- Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe or rinse the area with water to remove any leftover bleach.
- Open the windows or use a fan to move air through the room to eliminate smells.
- Keep pets and kids out of the area while you use bleach, and wait until the place is completely dry before letting them back in.
- Repeat the process as needed and regularly to keep the area clean and keep cockroaches away.
How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches With Bleach Alternatives?
There are several alternatives to bleach for cockroach extermination. Some potential solutions are listed below:
Boric Acid
Boric acid is a natural substance that can use to kill cockroaches. It works by hurting their outer shell and making them lose water. If you mix boric acid with sugar or flour, you can make cockroach bait.
Diatomaceous Earth
Cockroaches can kill with this natural substance made from fossilized algae. It works by cutting and drying out the exoskeleton. Diatomaceous earth can be put in cracks and crevices in walls, cabinets, and other places where cockroaches might hide.
Essential Oils
Cockroaches are naturally repelled by essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle, and then spray the mixture in places where you know or think there are cockroaches.
Vinegar
Vinegar can use to clean naturally and to keep cockroaches away. Pour equal amounts of vinegar and water into a spray bottle and use it to spray cockroach-infested areas.
Sticky Traps
Cockroaches can be caught with sticky traps, which are not dangerous. Put sticky traps along walls and in cabinets where cockroaches live.
FAQs
Do Cockroaches Like The Smell Of Bleach?
Cockroaches don’t like the smell of bleach. In fact, cockroaches can be scared off by the strong smell of bleach, which makes it a good way to keep them away and kill them. But it’s important to remember that bleach can be a good way to get rid of cockroaches. However, it should be used cautiously to avoid harming people or pets.
Does Pouring Bleach Down The Drain Get Rid Of Roaches?
Pouring bleach down the drain might kill some roaches in the pipes or near the drain opening. There are many places in a house where roaches can live, and pouring bleach down the drain won’t get to all of them.
Also, using bleach in this way could hurt your plumbing system in the long run. Bleach is corrosive, which means that too much of it can damage pipes and cause them to leak.
Can Bleach Cause Any Harm To Humans, Pets, Or The Environment?
According to Environmental Science and Pollution Research, if not used correctly, bleach can harm humans, animals, and the environment. It can irritate the skin and eyes, make breathing hard, and cause allergic reactions in people.
Many animals can’t handle bleach, and being around it can hurt their health. If bleach is thrown away incorrectly, it can harm aquatic life and plants and release harmful chemicals into the air. Follow the directions carefully, wear protective gear, don’t mix with other chemicals, and get rid of it the right way to reduce the risks.
Does Bleach Get Rid Of Cockroaches Permanently?
No, bleach does not get rid of cockroaches permanently. Bleach may kill some roaches when it comes in contact with them, but it doesn’t have any long-term effects on roach populations.
In short, bleach might temporarily reduce the number of roaches in an area, but it is not a good long-term solution for getting rid of roaches.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, bleach can kill cockroaches if it touches them directly, but it is not a good long-term way to get rid of a cockroach problem. Bleach doesn’t kill cockroaches or keep them from returning, and it doesn’t work on cockroach eggs, either.
Furthermore, bleach can hurt people, animals, and the environment if it isn’t used right. So, the best way to get rid of cockroaches is to use integrated pest management techniques like cleaning, sealing entry points, and setting up bait stations or using insecticides made just for cockroaches.
References
Syed R, Manzoor F, Adalat R, Abdul-Sattar A, Syed A. Laboratory Evaluation of Toxicity of Insecticide Formulations from Different Classes against American Cockroach (Dictyoptera: Blattidae). J Arthropod Borne Dis. 2013 Dec 18;8(1):21-34. PMID: 25629062; PMCID: PMC4289508.
Parveen, N., Chowdhury, S. & Goel, S. Environmental impacts of the widespread use of chlorine-based disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Environ Sci Pollut Res 29, 85742–85760 (2022).
