The kitchen is the most common site of cockroach infestations in Phoenix homes, and for obvious reasons: food, water, warmth, and plenty of dark hiding spots. German cockroaches in particular are almost exclusively kitchen and bathroom pests, concentrating in the narrow gaps behind appliances, inside cabinet hinges, under the sink, and in the motor compartment of the refrigerator. American cockroaches enter through floor drains and the gap under the dishwasher. Turkestan cockroaches come in through gaps around pipes under the sink. Understanding which species you are dealing with — and where they are hiding — is the first step to effective control.

The most important thing you can do before any treatment is thorough sanitation. Cockroaches are opportunistic feeders that will eat crumbs, grease residue, pet food, and even the glue on cardboard boxes. Clean behind and under all appliances, including the refrigerator coils where grease accumulates. Wipe down cabinet interiors and remove any cardboard boxes (cockroaches lay eggs in corrugated cardboard). Fix any dripping faucets or leaky pipes under the sink — moisture is as important as food for cockroach survival. Store all food in airtight containers. These steps do not eliminate an existing infestation, but they make treatment far more effective by removing competing food sources that reduce bait uptake.

For treatment, gel bait applied in small dots inside cabinet hinges, along the back wall of cabinets, and in the gap between the counter and the wall is the most effective approach for German cockroaches. Bait stations placed under the sink and behind the refrigerator address American cockroaches. A residual spray along the baseboard and around the perimeter of the kitchen handles roaches moving in from outside. Follow-up visits two to four weeks later are essential to address any surviving egg cases. Pest Control Bros provides professional cockroach control across Maricopa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa. Free inspections, no contracts.