Cockroach Pest Control Preparation Sheet: What to Do Before and After Treatment

Preparing your home or business properly is critical for effective cockroach treatment. This preparation sheet outlines everything you need to do before, during and after professional pest control service to get the best results.

Follow these steps carefully to ensure safety and maximize treatment success.

Why Cockroach Preparation Matters

Proper preparation helps pest control professionals reach target areas, improves treatment effectiveness and ensures safety for you and your family. Cockroaches hide in small cracks, behind appliances and inside cabinets—so full access and cleanliness are essential.

What to Do Before Cockroach Treatment

1. Clean the Kitchen Thoroughly

• Remove all food items from countertops, cupboards and drawers
• Wipe down all surfaces with soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals right before treatment
• Empty trash bins and take out garbage
• Vacuum behind and under appliances

2. Empty Cabinets and Drawers

• Remove dishes, food, pots and utensils from all kitchen and bathroom cabinets
• Place them in sealed bags or containers and store them away from treated areas

3. Cover or Store Away Food and Utensils

• Seal any remaining food items in airtight containers
• Store utensils and dishware in boxes, bags or another room

4. Clear Clutter from Floors and Corners

• Pick up items off the floor including laundry, magazines and boxes
• Move furniture slightly away from the walls to allow access to baseboards

5. Remove Pets and Pet Items

• Remove pets from the home for at least 4 hours (including birds and reptiles)
• Remove or cover pet food bowls, litter boxes and bedding

6. Secure Children’s Items

• Store away toys, pacifiers and baby bottles
• Clean children’s play areas thoroughly

7. Inform the Pest Control Technician of Infested Areas

• Point out where you’ve seen cockroach activity: behind appliances, under sinks, inside cupboards, etc.

Day of the Cockroach Treatment

• Ensure all prep work is completed before the technician arrives
• Plan to vacate the property for 2 to 4 hours, or as directed
• Leave windows slightly open if advised, to help with ventilation afterward

If you booked with 24hourspestcontrol.com, our team will walk you through any specific instructions unique to your property and treatment plan.

What to Do After Cockroach Treatment

1. Wait to Return

• Do not enter your home for the advised re-entry period (usually 2 to 4 hours)

2. Ventilate Your Space

• Open windows and doors to air out the home once you return

3. Avoid Deep Cleaning for a Few Days

• Do not wash treated baseboards or surfaces for at least 5–7 days
• Light cleaning is okay, but avoid disturbing treated areas

4. Dispose of Dead Roaches

• Use gloves or paper towels to remove and discard dead roaches
• Monitor problem areas and inform your technician if you still see activity after 2 weeks

5. Resume Normal Cleaning Gradually

• Return stored food, utensils and belongings to cabinets after 48 hours
• Continue cleaning and decluttering regularly to avoid reinfestation

Ongoing Prevention Tips

Conclusion

Proper preparation is the key to successful cockroach control. Following this prep sheet ensures the treatment is safe, effective and long-lasting.

Need professional help or a downloadable preparation checklist? Visit 24hourspestcontrol.com to schedule your treatment today. We’re available 24/7 for residential and commercial pest control with guaranteed results.