Two effective hacks to get rid of cockroaches from your kitchen: ‘They are unhygienic and spread diseases'

Indian Express

14-05-2025

On social media, MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria often shares tips and tricks from her kitchen to help us navigate the culinary world. However, the kitchen isn't just about the food. A lot more goes into its maintenance and upkeep, which adds to the cooking experience. Hygiene is a top priority, and preventing food contamination from cockroaches becomes essential to keeping your kitchen clean and tidy.
'Cockroaches are a big menace in the kitchen! They are unhygienic and spread diseases,' Bhadouria stated on Instagram, before sharing two handy tips to keep these pests at bay.
According to her, the most effective way to get rid of cockroaches is to use boric powder. 'In a small bowl, take equal quantities of boric powder and powdered sugar. Sprinkle this mixture in specific corners around the kitchen that are infested by cockroaches,' said the chef, explaining that the temptation of sugar would lure in insects, and the boric acid would kill them.
She recommended taking baking soda and powdered sugar and repeating the process above.
Deepak Sharma from the India Pest Control Company told indianexpress.com that boric acid, which comes in gel and powder forms, is the most common ingredient for pest control. 'Since boric acid has an electrostatic charge, it clings to a cockroach's body as the insect walks through a treated area. While grooming itself, the pest ingests this powder, which attacks its nervous system,' he clarified.
However, boric powder's effectiveness depends on its correct application. 'Homeowners must track the pests' activity to find the right spots to lay down a layer of dust. Hence, knowledge of the pests' signs and habits makes treatments more likely to succeed,' said Sharma.
It is essential to remember that boric acid does not affect cockroach eggs. 'Even though adult roaches may respond to treatments, their young often remain safe in hard-to-reach spaces to grow and multiply,' said the expert.
However, he emphasised that boric acid alone won't stop the pests. 'Practice exclusion tactics to keep more of the insects from moving in. Cleaning drains and sealing cracks that the pests use for hiding places or to obtain entrance into the home helps prevent new infestations,' he added.
Previously, celebrity chef Ananya Banerjee shared that food contamination caused by cockroaches can lead to stomach issues, digestive discomfort, and even infections. Getting rid of them requires a combination of cleanliness, natural repellents, and preventive measures.
'Wipe drawers regularly with a vinegar and water solution (1:1 ratio). This is to remove food particles and odours. Avoid leaving food crumbs or spills inside drawers. Store food in airtight containers to prevent attracting roaches,' the culinary expert had shared.
'You can also try some natural DIY hacks to keep cockroaches at bay, such as placing dried bay leaves across your kitchen since their strong smell keeps roaches away. Cloves, cinnamon, and neem leaves also do the trick. Mix a couple of drops of neem oil in water and spray it in the room for added effect,' shared Banerjee.