What is the most effective method of controlling cockroaches?

• A. Using insecticides.
• B. Using roach traps/motels.
• C. Practicing good housekeeping.
• D. Denying access to food or moisture.

Answer: (D)

Denying access to food or moisture is the most effective approach because cockroaches depend on readily available food and water to survive, grow, and reproduce. When those resources are removed or greatly reduced, their ability to feed and multiply is drastically hindered, so the population declines over time. This foundational sanitation and moisture-control strategy makes any other controls—like insecticides or traps—work more efficiently because there are fewer roaches to target and fewer places for them to hide.

Practically, this means thorough cleaning to remove crumbs and spills, proper storage of food in sealed containers, promptly disposing of garbage, eliminating pet food leftovers, and fixing leaks and eliminating standing water. Reducing clutter and sealing entry points also cut off harborage. While other methods can help, addressing the environmental needs first targets the cause of infestation and yields longer-lasting results.