Cockroach killers review

Cockroach killers are an effective short-term solution but in the long term, prevention is best.
 
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02.Introduction

Cockroach

Test results for three types of cockroach control

Find out which type of cockroach you need to get rid of, then look for the best-performing product on test

The main types of cockroach we see being either the larger American or smaller German cockroach. American cockroaches are found inside and outside the home, while the German species mainly lives inside. Both are a nuisance, and left unchecked can reach infestations of epic proportions.

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely you’ll ever be completely rid of cockroaches in your home, but there are ways you can control them.

CHOICE tested three types of chemical control:

  • knockdown sprays for individual cockroaches
  • surface sprays
  • baits and traps for more preventative, long-term control

Some surface sprays claim to last more than three months; we’ve tested their effectiveness over a one-month period and have also reported on their three-month performance.


 

 

Video: How we test - Cockroach killers

What's the best way to deal with this unwelcome home invader?

What's the best way to deal with this unwelcome home invader?

How we test cockroach killers



Hazardous pesticides

Most of the products on test and many you’ll find in stores have active ingredients made from third- or fourth-generation synthetic pyrethroids. There are also others on test made from an organophosphate and indoxacarb (an oxadiazine). All these ingredients, while minute in quantity, can be harmful to health so use them sparingly and in a targeted manner, washing your hands afterwards. 

In our hazardous chemicals story, we highlighted that bioresmethrin is not registered for use as an insecticide in Europe, yet it is used in Australia. We found one product that uses this ingredient and therefore don't recommend it. Several other products on test are cheaper and more effective anyway.

Products tested

  • Atlas Crawling Insect Surface Spray (SS)
  • Atlas High Performance Surface Spray (SS)
  • Baygon Do-It-Yourself Indoor Expert Home Surface Spray (SS)
  • Baygon High Performance Egg Kill Crawling Insect Surface Spray (SS)
  • Baygon Target Kill Crawling Insect Spray Antibacterial (KD)
  • Brunnings Ant and Termite Spider, Cockroach Killer (SS)
  • Coles Smartbuy Surface Spray Low Irritant (SS)
  • Crawly Cruncher Household Insecticide / Surface Spray (SS)
  • Hovex 2 in 1 Outdoor & Indoor Surface Spray (SS)
  • Hovex Natural Cockroach Traps (BT) (A)
  • Mortein Do-It-Yourself Professional Indoor Surface Spray (SS)
  • Mortein Lure'n'Kill Cockroach Baits (BT)
  • Pea Beu Insect Killer Fast Kill Low Allergenic Odourless (KD)
  • Raid Multipurpose Insect Killer Odourless (KD)
  • Woolworths Home Brand Insect Spray Low Irritant (KD)
  • Woolworths Select Low Irritant Insect Spray (KD)

(KD): Knock Down 
(SS): Surface Spray 
(BT): Baits or traps

(A) Discontinued, but may still be available in some stores.

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