Anyone searching for “kakalake” usually means cockroach – also commonly called a roach. Cockroaches are often found in warm, dark, and damp areas, such as kitchens, cracks, or behind appliances. Correct species identification, systematic infestation checks, and an appropriate, safe control strategy are crucial.
Identifying cockroaches: common species and characteristics
Not every cockroach looks the same. Identifying the species is important for correctly assessing an infestation, as their habitats and suitable control strategies can vary. In Germany, German, Oriental, American, and Brown-banded cockroaches are found in human environments in particular.
| Cockroach species | Identifying feature | Typical location | Suitable measure | Product type | Application instructions |
| German cockroach | approx. 14-16 mm, light/yellowish brown, dark longitudinal stripes | Warm indoor areas, especially kitchens | First locate and monitor the infestation | Monitoring trap, suitable cockroach gel if necessary | Observe product information and approval |
| Oriental cockroach | approx. 28-30 mm, dark brown to black | Damp areas, basements, building services areas | Identify the source of the infestation and access routes | Monitoring + suitable control | Species identification before treatment is advisable |
| American cockroach | approx. 26-38 mm, reddish brown | Warm indoor areas, sometimes introduced from elsewhere | Determine the extent of the infestation | Monitoring + suitable control | For heavier infestations, consult professional pest controllers |
| Brown-banded cockroach | approx. 10-15 mm, light to dark brown | Residential and commercial premises | Locate the infestation and identify the species | Monitoring + suitable control | Observe product information |
Cockroach gel for cockroach control: nk Cockroach Gel Pro and Advion compared
nk Cockroach Gel Pro is a gel bait containing the active ingredient Imidacloprid 2.15% and is intended for the targeted control of various cockroach species, such as German, Oriental, and American cockroaches. According to the product information, the 10-g version offered by Kaeferling Pro is suitable for non-professional and professional users.
Advion Cockroach Gel, on the other hand, contains Indoxacarb 1.28%. In addition to various cockroach species, it is also approved for use against silverfish and firebrats according to the product information. Advion is intended for professional users and is supplied in a 30-g cartridge.
Both products are gel baits for cockroach control, but differ primarily in terms of active ingredient, target species, and user category. The appropriate option should be selected based on the specific infestation and the respective product and application instructions.
What helps against cockroaches in the kitchen and home
1. Check for infestation
First, check whether cockroaches are actually present and which species is involved. Monitoring traps help identify infested areas and activity
2. Reduce food sources and hiding places
Store food in sealed containers, remove leftovers, and check for possible hiding places and access routes.
3. Choose the appropriate control measure
The appropriate measure depends on the cockroach species, infestation severity, and area of application. For biocidal products, the labeling, instructions for use, and product information must be observed.
Cockroach gel for cockroach control: nk Cockroach Gel Pro and Advion compared
nk Cockroach Gel Pro is a gel bait containing the active ingredient Imidacloprid 2.15% and is intended for the targeted control of various cockroach species, such as German, Oriental, and American cockroaches. According to the product information, the 10-g version offered by Kaeferling Pro is suitable for non-professional and professional users.
Advion Cockroach Gel, on the other hand, contains Indoxacarb 1.28%. In addition to various cockroach species, it is also approved for use against silverfish and firebrats according to the product information. Advion is intended for professional users and is supplied in a 30-g cartridge.
Both products are gel baits for cockroach control, but differ primarily in terms of active ingredient, target species, and user category. The appropriate option should be selected based on the specific infestation and the respective product and application instructions.
4. Check the results
After treatment, continue checking whether pest activity is still present. Monitoring traps are also suitable for follow-up inspections.
When should professional help be sought?
Professional support should be sought in the event of a confirmed, severe, or recurring cockroach infestation. This applies in particular to commercial areas such as food service and food processing.
The Kaeferling Service supports private and commercial customers in Cologne, Hürth, and the surrounding area with infestation identification, professional treatment, and follow-up inspections.
→ Professional cockroach control with Kaeferling Service
Frequently asked questions about cockroaches
Is “Kakalake” the correct spelling?
No. The correct spelling is Kakerlake. Colloquially, cockroaches are also referred to as Schaben.
What should I do if I discover a cockroach in the kitchen?
Check whether there are any further signs of an infestation and, if necessary, use monitoring traps. In the event of a confirmed or more severe infestation, professional support is advisable.
What immediate measures are advisable for cockroaches?
Seal food, remove food scraps, and check for possible hiding places and access routes. Depending on the cockroach species and severity of the infestation, the appropriate control method can then be selected.
What do I need to consider with children and pets?
Use pest control products only in accordance with the label and instructions for use. Pay particular attention to application instructions, protective measures, and accessibility for children and animals.
Further reading:
Find out more about the causes, identification, and cockroach infestations in our detailed guide to cockroaches
