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Cockroach Infestation? 8 Signs You Have One (and What To Do)

February 3, 2023 · 8 min read
cockroach
Photo by Try_my_best from Shutterstock

7. Smear Marks

Not only do cockroaches thrive in the dark, but they are also attracted by moisture. As a result, they are often found in places with high humidity in your house, such as crawlspaces, basements, plumbing areas, and sink areas in bathrooms and kitchens.

In these spots, the pests will often leave dark, irregularly-shaped smear marks behind as they crawl along the walls and floors. Make sure you check other horizontal surfaces as well. Roaches tend to stay along the walls and the edges of other surfaces, which can result in smear marks.

Not only do these disgusting traces pose dangers to your health, but they also attract other cockroaches. The best way to clean the surface where you spot smear marks is to use a reliable, quality disinfectant. But before that, wash the area with lukewarm, soapy water. Scrub it and let it dry. Spray the disinfectant and let the substance stay on the surface for several minutes.

Wipe the area with a dry cloth, then wash it again with lukewarm, soapy water. Don’t forget to use kitchen gloves!

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