What Temperature Kills Cockroaches?

Cockroach eggs are incredibly durable which is another reason why you can still have an infestation once you’ve killed all the adults. Knowing the temperatures needed to achieve lethal drying for eggs is important for their long-term control. Extreme temperatures either hot or cold are deterrents from hatching and make it less likely the mayflies will reinvest.

Heat as an Effective Method

A long period of exposure to high temperatures is one of the best ways to kill cockroach eggs. Eggs typically cannot last at temperatures over 120°F (49°C). Pest control companies do hot boxes which are a heat treatment for the entire structure, but it won’t prevent replacent since there are no residual chemicals or repellant.

Using Household Heat Treatments

Hot water or steam at home is a great simpler option for smaller items. You should wash bedding, clothes, or fabric items in water that is at least 140°F (60°C) in order to remove most roach eggs. Steam cleaning carpets, or upholstered furniture can also help access out-of-reach eggs, which can be impossible to treat with chemicals.

Cold Temperatures and Freezing

Freezing temperatures long enough can also kill cockroach eggs. Eggs usually do not survive 0°F (-18°C) temperatures longer than 24–48 hours. However, though freezing is only useful for the smaller infested items, such as clothing or toys, it is a nontoxic method of killing eggs without pesticides.

Conclusion

Roach eggs can withstand regular temperatures though are destructible in high heat. applying an assortment of heat, infestation freezing, and sanitation is a good tactic for reinfestation avoidance. When implementing and considering such temperature thresholds, a more effective long term cockroach population management and control can be achieved.