What Not to Do When Using Gel Bait

Although roach bait gel is extremely effective and fairly easy to use, there are a few ways you might step on your own toes.

Don’t use too much gel.

You shouldn’t apply cockroach gel bait as if it were caulk, spreading it in thick layers or packing holes with it. It’s potent stuff; you only need a little. Plus, roaches are sensitive to perceived danger. Too much bait might scare them away and spread the infestation further.5

It’s best to drop only very small amounts, spread out across the target area. This avoids spooking the roaches or causing them to move to avoid the bait altogether.

Don’t cancel out the bait with repellents.

When using other products in combination with a gel bait, it’s important not to counteract the attractive bait by using repellents or bad-tasting sprays. Additionally, don’t spray household cleaners near the bait. We know you’re dying to disinfect, but if a cockroach catches a whiff of chemicals instead of the smell of tasty bait, it’ll flee and never come back for more.

Don’t forget about cockroach eggs.

Roach eggs aren’t affected by baits because the bait has to be eaten. Until they hatch, eggs are perfectly safe from your secret weapon. It’s important to persist with the bait, even after it seems most of the roaches have died. There could be eggs lying in wait, ready to restart the whole roach problem.

Buy fresh bait.

Found an old, faded bottle of cockroach bait in your apartment closet? It may have lost the strong smell and will not be as effective as a new bottle. Remember, cockroaches have to have it. You're better off buying fresh, tasty baits, they're irresistible.