Why Cockroaches Keep Coming Back and How to Stop Them for Good
Do you ever feel like no matter how many times you get rid of cockroaches, they always seem to come back?
You’re not alone. Cockroaches are among the most persistent pests found in Perth homes, capable of surviving in almost any environment. Their ability to breed rapidly, hide in tiny spaces, and resist many household sprays makes them one of the toughest pests to eliminate. Unfortunately, what may seem like a few stray roaches often signals a much larger problem hiding behind walls or under appliances. That’s where our
expert cockroach pest control services at
Stewarts Pest Control can make all the difference.
Why Cockroaches Keep Coming Back
Cockroaches are among the most resilient pests in the world, and once they’ve made themselves at home, getting rid of them entirely can be a challenge. Understanding why they keep coming back is the first step towards stopping them for good.
They Reproduce at an Alarming Rate
One of the biggest reasons cockroach infestations are so difficult to eliminate is their rapid breeding cycle. A single female German cockroach, for instance, can produce up to 300 offspring in her lifetime. Their eggs are encased in protective capsules that can survive harsh conditions and resist many common insecticides. Even if you manage to kill the adults, the eggs left behind can hatch weeks later and restart the infestation.
They Thrive in Hidden and Hard-to-Reach Places
Cockroaches are nocturnal and secretive by nature. They hide in dark, warm, and moist areas, such as behind fridges, under sinks, inside cupboards, or within wall cavities. Because they’re rarely seen during the day, many homeowners assume they’ve been eliminated when, in reality, the colony is thriving out of sight. This is why infestations often return soon after DIY treatments.
They Can Survive Extreme Conditions
Cockroaches are built to survive. They can go weeks without food, days without water, and even live for a short time without their heads. They adapt quickly to their environment and can develop resistance to over-the-counter sprays and baits. This incredible resilience makes them one of the most persistent pests to deal with.
DIY Treatments Don’t Address the Source
Most supermarket sprays and traps only kill cockroaches on the surface. They don’t penetrate the cracks and crevices where eggs and nests are hidden. This means you might see fewer roaches temporarily, but the underlying issue remains untouched. Without targeting the root cause, it’s only a matter of time before the infestation returns.
A recurring cockroach infestation isn’t a sign of poor hygiene; it’s a sign of how tenacious these pests can be. Proper elimination requires identifying nesting areas, understanding cockroach behaviour, and applying targeted treatments designed to eradicate the entire colony, not just what’s visible.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Trying to Get Rid of Cockroaches
When faced with an infestation, most homeowners act fast, grabbing sprays, setting traps, or trying natural remedies. While these quick fixes might offer temporary relief, they often make the problem worse in the long run. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing how to treat the issue effectively.
Relying on Supermarket Sprays Alone
A can of insect spray might seem like the perfect solution when you see a cockroach scurrying across the floor. However, most off-the-shelf sprays only kill the insects you can see. The larger problem, hidden nests and egg capsules, remains untouched. Many cockroach species, particularly the German cockroach, breed deep within cracks and behind appliances where sprays can’t reach. Some even develop resistance over time, rendering these treatments useless.
Ignoring Hidden Entry Points and Food Sources
Cockroaches can flatten their bodies to squeeze through tiny openings around pipes, drains, and cupboards. Failing to seal these entry points allows them to re-enter your home even after cleaning. Leaving out uncovered food, dirty dishes, or overflowing bins only makes things worse. A few crumbs or drops of water are enough to sustain them for days. Consistent cleaning and sealing access points are crucial to breaking the infestation cycle.
Not Identifying the Type of Cockroach
Different species require different treatment methods. For example, German cockroaches prefer kitchens and bathrooms, while American cockroaches thrive in drains and subfloor areas. Without proper identification, homeowners often target the wrong areas, wasting time and money.
Overusing Chemicals or DIY Mixtures
Using excessive amounts of insecticide or untested home remedies can scatter the colony, forcing cockroaches to retreat deeper into walls and cupboards. This makes them harder to reach later and allows the infestation to spread.
The truth is, most DIY methods fail because they don’t target the breeding grounds. Professional cockroach control services go beyond surface treatments, addressing nests, egg capsules, and root causes with precision. By combining inspection, targeted application, and safe long-term prevention, experts ensure cockroaches are eliminated completely — not just driven out temporarily.
How to Stop Cockroaches for Good
Getting rid of cockroaches permanently requires a combination of thorough cleaning, preventive maintenance, and ongoing vigilance. These pests are survivors, but by addressing the conditions that attract them and taking proactive steps, you can make your home far less inviting.
Keep Kitchens and Food Areas Spotless
The kitchen is the heart of any home, and the favourite hangout for cockroaches. Leftover crumbs, spills, and grease residue are all irresistible to them. Make it a habit to wipe down benches, stovetops, and splashbacks after every meal. Sweep or vacuum the floors daily and clean under appliances where food particles tend to accumulate. Store pantry items in airtight containers, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Regularly empty your rubbish bins and ensure they have tight-fitting lids to keep pests away.
Eliminate Moisture and Fix Leaks
Cockroaches thrive in damp environments. Leaky taps, dripping pipes, or standing water under sinks provide them with the hydration they need to survive. Inspect your bathroom, kitchen, and laundry regularly, and fix any leaks promptly. Wipe down wet areas after use and improve ventilation in humid spaces by using exhaust fans or dehumidifiers.
Seal Cracks and Entry Points
Even the smallest gaps can serve as entryways for cockroaches. Inspect your home’s walls, baseboards, and cupboards for cracks or holes, and seal them with caulk or filler. Pay close attention to areas around plumbing, drains, and electrical outlets. Installing door sweeps and weather stripping can also help block entry from the outside.
Maintain Clean Drains and Appliances
Cockroaches often nest in drains and behind appliances where food debris collects. Pour boiling water or a mix of vinegar and baking soda down drains weekly to help flush out residue. Move appliances like fridges, ovens, and dishwashers periodically to clean behind and underneath them.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Even with excellent hygiene, it’s easy to overlook hidden nests. Professional inspections ensure that potential infestations are detected and treated early. Experts use targeted products and baits that are far more effective than DIY sprays.
By following these cockroach prevention tips, you can keep your home clean, hygienic, and free from unwanted pests, and finally stop cockroaches from coming back for good.
Why You Should Call the Experts
When cockroaches refuse to stay gone no matter how many times you clean or spray, it’s time to call in the professionals. These pests are incredibly resilient, and surface-level solutions rarely eliminate them completely. Professional treatment not only gets rid of visible cockroaches but also targets their hidden nesting areas to ensure lasting protection.
DIY Methods Have Their Limits
Most supermarket products are designed for quick relief, not long-term control. They might kill a few cockroaches on contact, but they won’t reach the colony living deep within walls, drains, or under appliances. Without targeting the source, the infestation will eventually return. In some cases, overusing sprays can even make matters worse by scattering cockroaches into new hiding spots.
Professionals Know Where to Look and How to Treat
Trained technicians understand cockroach behaviour; where they hide, how they breed, and what treatment works for each species. They use specialised tools and industry-grade products to locate nests and apply treatments precisely. This ensures every stage of the infestation, from adults to eggs, is eliminated safely and effectively.
Safe and Lasting Solutions
At Stewarts Pest Control, our team uses safe, family- and pet-friendly products that deliver powerful results without harming your home environment. With over 70 years of experience, we know what works in Perth’s unique conditions. Our treatments don’t just stop infestations temporarily; they’re designed to prevent future outbreaks through ongoing monitoring and maintenance plans.
Peace of Mind from Trusted Experts
Partnering with an experienced pest control team means you can finally stop worrying about the problem returning. We take the time to assess your home, explain our process, and provide clear aftercare advice to keep your space cockroach-free.
When it comes to complete cockroach removal, there’s no substitute for professional help. Stewarts Pest Control combines expertise, proven methods, and genuine care to ensure your home stays clean, healthy, and protected for good.
Ready to Keep Cockroaches Away for Good?
Are you tired of battling cockroaches that always seem to come back no matter what you try? Lasting protection starts with understanding why they return, addressing the root causes, and trusting professionals who know how to stop them properly. Clean habits and prevention go a long way, but expert help ensures complete, long-term results.
At Stewarts Pest Control, we’ve been helping Perth families keep their homes pest-free since 1954 with safe, reliable, and family-friendly treatments. Don’t let cockroaches take over your kitchen or peace of mind. Contact our friendly team today to arrange a professional inspection and reclaim your home for good.









