Cockroaches and Blattodea in apartments and businesses – recognize, understand causes & properly combat

Cockroaches and Blattodea are among the most hygiene-relevant pests indoors. They occur both in private households and in commercial areas such as gastronomy, hospitality, and food processing. Due to their high adaptability and rapid reproduction, infestations can spread within a short time.

On this page, you will learn how to recognize cockroaches, why they appear, and which measures for self-control really help.

What are cockroaches and Blattodea?

Cockroaches – also called Blattodea – belong to the insect order Blattodea. In Germany, especially the German cockroach, the American cockroach, and the Oriental cockroach occur.

Typical characteristics:

• flat body shape

• fast, mostly nocturnal activity

• hiding in cracks, cavities, and kitchen units

• high resistance to unfavorable conditions

They prefer to stay in warm areas with access to food and water.

Typical infestation sites

Cockroaches are often found in:

• kitchens and pantries

• bathrooms

• storage rooms

• gastronomic establishments

• food processing areas

• Living spaces with hidden sources of moisture

Infestations often remain undetected for a long time because the animals hide during the day.

Why do cockroaches appear?

Common causes are:

• brought-in packaging or delivery goods

• open food

• warm cavities behind kitchen units

• drains and pipe penetrations

• shared pipes in multi-family houses

A single animal usually already indicates an existing infestation.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

Cockroaches are considered hygiene pests because they:

• can transmit pathogens

• contaminate food

• can trigger allergic reactions

That is why quick action is important in case of an infestation.

What really helps against cockroaches?

Home remedies generally show no sustainable effect.

Proven effective are:

• targeted bait or gel placement along travel routes

• combination with monitoring traps

• reduction of hiding places

• accompanying hygiene measures

A systematic approach over several weeks is important to reach hidden populations as well.

Typical duration of control

Depending on the infestation level:

• initial reduction after about 1–2 weeks

• significant improvement after 3–4 weeks

• complete containment usually within 4–8 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do cockroaches hide?

Behind kitchen appliances, in baseboards, wall cavities, cabinets, and drains.

Is a single trap enough?

No. Effective control requires multiple bait points and monitoring.

Do I have to leave the apartment?

No. The products are designed for independent use.

Products for controlling cockroaches and roaches

Here you will find selected products for independent control of cockroaches and roaches:

Catchmaster 100i Roach Trap
Advion Cockroach Gel
Nk Cockroach Gel Pro

A guide from Kaeferling Pro

Technical classification

Cockroaches and roaches are hygiene-relevant pests in private and commercial indoor spaces.

Kaeferling Pro is a German online shop for pest control and offers products for independent control of cockroaches and roaches.
This is not an on-site pest control service.