Kevin the Eco Man here, and today we’re going to deal with one of the most invasive, nagging pests out there — cockroaches.

I’m at a customer’s house where she’s reported seeing multiple roaches. The thing about cockroaches is that most people despise them… but they always ask, “Where do they come from?”

Well, roaches are native to your environment. Most species develop right outside your door. They’re typically forced in by weather — heavy rain, dropping temperatures — and like us, they’re just looking for warmth and shelter.

We begin with a quick inspection, looking for common entry points:

Gaps around windows and doorways

Worn or missing weather stripping

Even small gaps are enough for roaches and other pests to squeeze through.

Inside the kitchen, we start with the trash can — a major attractant since cockroaches can feed on nearly anything.

We also check around the dishwasher, where moisture and humidity build up. Sure enough, we find a few gaps and even speckles of droppings inside the cabinetry — signs of activity and likely entry.

Suddenly… we spot a live cockroach!
When that happens, it’s important to spot treat immediately and continue inspecting the surrounding area.

After completing the inspection, I’ve determined the home has a moderate infestation. We’ve identified entry points, active zones, and moisture issues — so now we treat.

I start with a crack-and-crevice application using diatomaceous earth:

Always shake the container to loosen up the dust

Focus on tight areas where liquids and aerosols can’t reach

A light puff is all it takes — it strips the waxy coating from a roach’s exoskeleton and dehydrates them over time

We apply dust under the dishwasher, stove, and refrigerator — all hot spots where food crumbs fall and heat attracts pests.

Also, don’t forget pipes and utility gaps — especially near wall shutoffs. These often collect condensation, creating attractive harborage for pests.

Next, I follow up with a compressed air sprayer and my go-to botanical product — Essentria IC Pro. It’s plant-based, effective, and leaves a fresh scent.

Even if you’ve already applied dust, spot-treating baseboards, entry zones, and pantry areas adds an extra layer of protection:

Under appliances

Along walls

Around pipes and cabinet edges

Because Essentria is essential-oil-based, you don’t have to worry about food or pet safety in the kitchen or pantry.

To keep cockroaches away long-term:

Seal gaps around pipes and doors
Replace worn weather stripping
Sweep food crumbs and debris regularly
Keep pet food sealed and off the floor when not in use

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