Why good prep changes everything
Cockroaches feed on crumbs, grease and water, and hide in warm, humid crevices. If those sources remain, they ignore the gel bait and the treatment fails. Serious preparation isn't optional — it's what makes the treatment work.
Empty the kitchen and bathroom
These two rooms are key — they hold the water and food.
- Empty the top and bottom of all kitchen and bathroom cabinets, as well as the drawers.
- Set the contents on a table in the middle of the room, or store them in closed bins.
- Clear counters and surfaces to give access to cracks and baseboards.
Remove food and water
Cutting off the roaches' resources forces them to eat the bait.
- Store all food in airtight containers (or the fridge).
- Clean crumbs and splatters on counters, shelves, under and between appliances.
- Fix faucet and plumbing leaks, wipe sinks dry at night: roaches love moisture.
The deep clean: degrease and vacuum
Wash greasy surfaces: stove, range hood, walls, cabinets, counters. Grease is a major food source. Then vacuum everywhere, into every corner, and seal the bag inside a second bag and throw it in the outdoor bin. Wash the floor and the base of the walls before the technician's first visit.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't use store-bought bug bombs: they scatter roaches into walls and neighbouring units without touching the nest, and the infestation gets worse. Above all, after the gel is applied, don't wash the treated surfaces: you'd remove the bait before it works. In an apartment building, report the infestation to the owner — a coordinated treatment across units is far more effective.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does preparation take?
A few hours to empty and degrease the kitchen and bathroom. It's the step that determines the whole result.
Do I have to take everything out of my cabinets?
Yes, the top and bottom of kitchen and bathroom cabinets. The technician needs access to the cracks and corners where roaches hide and where the gel goes.
Why not clean after the treatment?
The gel bait must stay in place so roaches eat it and carry it back to the nest (domino effect). Washing treated surfaces cancels the effect.
Is one treatment enough?
A follow-up visit is often needed to reach hatching eggs. Good preparation reduces the number of visits required.