15 Best Roach Killers In 2024, As Per A Pest Control Expert
Nicole CarpenterPest Control Expert 
Specialty: Pest and insect controlExperience: 12 yearsNicole Carpenter is a fourth-generation entrepreneur, managing her family business Black Pest Prevention. The firm provides effective and affordable pest control services. Nicole has about ten years of experience in the control and prevention of ants, roaches, rodents, termites, and mosquitoes.
Read full bio of Nicole Carpenter
wedetso chirhah shreya vishwanathan Shreya is a gold medalist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology from SGT University, Gurugram. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in applied psychology from Amity University, Gwalior. Her interest in human behavior and extensive years of learning and training in psychology has instilled in her the skills to understand the consumer psyche to optimize the reader's experience.
Read full bio of Shreya Vishwanathan
poulami nag 
In This Article
The one thing you wouldn’t want to find inside your kitchen and other parts of the house is a roach. The best roach killer can let you eliminate these insects and get your home in order.
Cockroaches are filthy insects that multiply fast and infest every part of the house. Before you know it, their numbers increase, leaving everything dirty. Cockroach infestations can lead to allergies, asthma, the spread of pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, skin reactions, and respiratory issues. In this post, we have listed some tried-and-tested roach killers. These are the best-selling options that are trending the most in the market. Choose a reliable one to keep your house free of these pests.
Top Picks
15 Best Roach Killers To Kill Insects
1. Best Non-Staining Formula:Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer
The Ortho home defense insect killer kills ants, roaches, spiders, and many other insects. This long-lasting bug barrier comes with a comfort wand that makes pumping easy and fatigue-free. The killer insecticide spray provides continuous protection for up to 12 months and is completely odorless. If you need more convincing, feel free to take a look at this YouTuber’s product testing video on the merits and demerits of the product.
https://www.bhg.com/best-roach-killers-6743396[2]The 5 best roach killers in 2024 https://www.insider.com/guides/home/best-roach-killer#best-roach-killer-overall-1
Pros
- Reusable wand
- Non-staining formula
- Dries out quickly
- Perfect for indoors and outdoors
- Gives one-touch continuous spray
Cons
- Can create noise while spraying
"I only apply this insecticide twice yearly, yet it keeps my home free of ants, roaches, and other insects. It has the typical scent of pest deterrent odor, but I consider that a minor hassle compared to its effectiveness and longevity."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 62,444 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Caution2. Best Non- Repellant:Advion Cockroach Gel Bait
Advion cockroach gel bait is long-lasting and is available in a set of four tubes and four plungers. This killer bait gel formula is perfect for killing insects and is safe for use in sensitive outdoor and indoor areas. The product contains 0.6 % of indoxacarb, suitable for eradicating insects and pests. If you want a detailed review of the cockroach killer, watch this video.
Pros
- Non- repellant
- Easy to use
- Safe for sensitive application
- Easy to use
Cons
- Gel hardens if you leave it for a long time
"I tried multiple roach control options for my attic, but nothing worked as well as this one. Its results were fast–almost all the roaches had vanished by the third day. I had to inject it away from my pets, but it is handy in keeping my home pest-free."
3. Best Long-Lasting Effect:Max Magma Home Pest Spray
The home pest spray from Max Magma is an organic pest control formula safe to use all-around your home. It’s a reliable spray formula that lasts for up to 60 days.
Pros
- Made from natural ingredients
- Non-toxic formula
- Completely safe for your family and pets
- Terminates pests effectively
- Creates a rapid and long-lasting effect
Cons
- Has an unpleasant smell
"A friend recommended this roach deterrent to tackle the infestation of roaches in my home. It took a couple of days to show its effectiveness, but it eliminated them to a large extent. However, remember to store the bottle upright, as it may not be leakproof."
Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer Best Non-Staining Formula | Advion Cockroach Gel Bait Best Non- Repellant | Max Magma Home Pest Spray Best Long-Lasting Effect | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11.7 ounces | 6.9 ounces | 3.58 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8.95 x 12 x 4.88 inches. | 7.6 x 5.4 x 1.9 inches. | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 62,444 | 44,348 | 435 |
| Price | $14.49 | $34.89 | $22.26 |
4. Best For Neutralizing Odors:Hot Shot Fogger 6 With Odor Neutralizer
This tried-and-tested pest control formula with odor neutralizer can kill heavy infestation for up to two months. It creates a fine mist that penetrates deep inside the cracks, holes, and crevices where most insects can hide. This non-staining cockroach fogger does not leave any wet or messy residue. You can also check this YouTuber’s detailed review video to know more about this product.
Pros
- Neutralizes odors
- Kills hidden bugs
- Covers 2,000cu.ft.
- Controls heavy infestations
- Effective up to two months
Cons
- Fog might clog if not used properly
"I got them for the roach infestation in my house but was surprised to see that they even worked on the termites and fleas. Although the application is simple, there is a learning curve to get the quantity and coverage right. However, that does not affect the formula’s effectiveness."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 16,154 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Remember5. Best Non-Toxic:Zap-A-Roach Roach and Ant Killer
Known for its high-quality performance and effective results, Zap-A-Roach cockroach and ant killer is made from 100% boric acid and is specially designed to eliminate adamant pests. This insecticide is safety-tested, EPA-registered, and has a non-staining compound perfect to use on any fabric or surface.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Toxic to bugs
- Protect your home
- Kills bugs promptly
- Easy to apply and non-toxic
Cons
- Gives pungent smell
"After consistently using this powder, I saw a reduction in my house's roach and ant infestation. Its application is also straightforward, but its odor can be overpowering. However, airing the sprayed area solves this issue. Overall, It has proven pretty effective in controlling pests."
6. Best Easy to Apply:Maxforce FC Magnum
FC magnum is the newest and fastest-acting roach bait created by Maxforce. The roaches get attracted to its irresistible formulation and die through direct contact or ingestion. The premium roach killer is perfect for indoor, outdoor, commercial, and residential areas.
Pros
- Pet-safe
- Most powerful roach bait
- Easy to use
- Can last up to two years
- Gel formula is easy to apply
Cons
- May not work in dusty areas
"The formula worked better than everything else I had tried against the roach infestation in my attic. While it did take a few days to work, it offered noticeable results by drastically reducing their appearance."
7. Best Easy-To-Use:Bengal Gold Roach Spray
Bengal roach killer spray is a permethrin-based product that effectively eliminates cockroaches. Its unique dry spray penetrates the deep cracks and crevices and prevents the reproduction of cockroaches and insects.
Pros
- Contains Nylar
- No odor or mess
- Easy to use
- Destroys the eggs and larvae of roaches
- Prevents reinfestation for up to six months
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
"This spray keeps warm and moist areas such as my kitchen and garage free of cockroaches, ants, and spiders. Its long spraying tube allows me to inject the liquid into tight spaces. Although the results are satisfactory, an increase in quantity would be nice."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 6,168 reviews claiming its efficacy.
Remember8. Best Mess-Free:Roach Motels
The Black Flag roach motel traps cockroaches, water insects, worms, scorpions, and many more. This pest control works effectively for up to four months. These ready-to-use roach traps are safe to use, and they keep dead insects hidden from view.
Pros
- Mess-free
- Safe for pets and kids
- Provides a long-term result
Cons
- Traps can turn out greasy over a period
"As a pet parent, I could not use those insecticides; hence, these roach catchers have been the perfect find. I love that they even keep the dead bugs away from sight. While not a solution for large infestations, they have effectively prevented the pest issue from escalating."
9. Best Easy-To-Store:Terro Multi Surface Roach Killer
Terro roach killer is a protein-based bait trap that attracts and kills cockroaches. These adhesive strips can be placed or attached anywhere in the house. It features a see-through window to monitor bait levels.
Pros
- Easy to use and store
- Uniquely designed
- Consists of six roach bait stations
- Adhesive strips keep the bait in place
Cons
- Might take a longer time to show results
"The best part about these roach baits is that I can stick or place them discreetly. They not only catch large roaches, but I have also seen some smaller ones perish when they came close to it. It may take time to show results, but it has been a dependable option."
10. Best For Indoors and Outdoors:Roach Doctor Cockroach Gel
The gel-based formula comes with a syringe applicator ideal to cover up ultra-tiny gaps. It is useful in killing different insects, including ants, roaches, and spiders. The gel-based insecticide is mess-free and is completely safe for children and pets.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Suitable for outdoor and indoor use
- Can be applied to your electrical appliances
- Single dab of gel is enough
- Works instantly
Cons
- Gel might get too hard if kept for a long time
"This product helped me maintain a roach-free home by significantly reducing roach sightings in my space. While routine cleaning is necessary to maintain its effectiveness, it offers impressive results for roaches and various other pests. I also liked that it's easy to apply and unscented."
11. Best With Micro-Foam Technology:Combat Max Quick Kill Foam
The quick-kill foam from Combat uses a micro-foam technology that expands into crevices and cracks where most insects hide. This fast-acting Combat roach killing bait lasts for up to ten months when used on non-porous surfaces.
Pros
- Foam dries up quickly
- Long-lasting effect
- Easily expands into hard-to-reach places
- Powerful for roaches—kills on contact
Cons
- Might not be suitable for outdoor areas
"This product amazed me with its efficiency in tackling stubborn roach infestation in my home. It kills the roaches within seconds and is easy to apply around pesky corners. While it cannot replace professional cleaning, it is a solid choice for temporary control."
12. Best Plant-Based: Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray
Wondercide pest control spray is a plant-based roach remedy comprising natural essential oils with no artificial color or fragrance. It is a completely biodegradable and expertly proven product. They are available in four aromatherapeutic fragrances. The liquid roach bait can be sprayed under toilets, drawers, closets, kitchens, washing rooms, holes, and cracks.
Pros
- Creates no stain
- One spray application is enough
- Safe for kids and pets
- Contains no harsh chemicals
- Not tested on animals
- Covers up the tiny cracks
Cons
- Might not provide a long-lasting effect
"This spray keeps all bugs, including roaches and flies, from making their home in my bathroom. While it requires reapplication after a few days, its pet-friendly formula and pleasant smell make it my preferred option."
13. Best With Natural Ingredients:Natural Armour All- Natural Bug, Insect and Pest Killer
Natural Armour pest control consists of concentrated peppermint, clove, and vinegar that effectively kills the roaches and other insects. The trusted pest killer comes with a heavy-duty trigger sprayer that guarantees no-clog spray. This liquid insecticide is cruelty-free and completely safe for kids, pets, and the environment.
Pros
- Repels fast for up to 12 months
- Easy to use
- Made from natural ingredients
Cons
- Might cause staining; hence, do not use it on fabrics
"I came across this option while looking for a natural pest-repellent. It has a strong odor that may not kill on impact but has made all the ants disappear from my kitchen pantry. Plus, as it does not stain the surface, I have used it on furniture and trash cans too."
14. Best Eco-Friendly:EcoSmart Ant and Roach Killer
Ecosmart ant and roach killer is a plant-based product consisting of natural essential oils with no artificial color. It is safe for kids, pets, and cruelty-free. The roach spray can be used in your surroundings and outside the boundaries of your residence. The chemical kills ants, spiders, bed bugs, dirt mites, roaches, and more.
Pros
- Safe for outdoor and indoor
- Kills the bugs instantly
- Can enter the hard-to-reach tiny cracks
- Eco-friendly product
Cons
- Fragrance might cause irritation
"This plant-based ant and roach killer offers immediate pest control, and its natural scent lingers, but it's not like typical insecticides. I found it a safer choice with pets and kids around the house."
15. Best For Terminating Roaches:Raid Ant and Roach Killer
The lavender scent roach spray is specially designed for terminating roach infestations, and it provides a long-lasting effect for up to four weeks. It does not leave any wet residual toxic scent. You can use the roach-eradicating solution indoors and outdoors.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Accessible to hard-to-reach places
- Single press of spray would be enough
- Leaves no lingering chemical odor
Cons
- Spray nozzle may not be very user friendly
"I was particularly surprised by the results of this ant and roach spray on Asian beetles and flour bugs. While it doesn't take effect instantly, it works for most pests, making it a practical solution to keep those pesky invaders at bay. Overall, it's been a good purchase."
How To Choose The Right Roach Killer?
Consider these factors when choosing a roach killer.
- Type: Based on the amount of roach infestation, choose from these three types of roach killers.
- Surface sprays: They provide long-term control and can be applied on crevices, dustbins, shelves, etc. Surface sprays attack the roach’s nerve function with synthetic pyrethroids, causing paralysis and death.
- Traps and baits: Traps and baits provide a longer roach control and are effective when used along with a surface spray. Poisonous baits contain indoxacarb that enters into the insects’ nervous system and blocks sodium channels, causing dehydration and death.
- Knock-down sprays: Knock-down sprays contain similar key active ingredients but help target a single cockroach at a time and eliminate them instantly.
- Level of toxicity: Check the product label to find the toxic level of the product. If “caution” is mentioned, they are moderately poisonous. In case “poison or dangerously poison” is mentioned, please stay away, cause even a small accident will be fatal. Several kids- and pet-friendly roach killers, such as glue papers, one-way doors, and ultrasonic repellents are less effective and safer than regular roach killing products.
- Length of efficacy: The length of efficacy defines how long the roach killer’s intensity will work before it requires a replacement. It depends on how much product you apply and how fast the active ingredients break down. Mostly, roach killers will have an efficacy period of one month to two years. Choose the product depending on large or minimal infestation.
Precautions To Take While Using Roach Killers
- Vacate the treated area after applying the roach control pesticides.
- Keep foggers away from fire or any ignition sites.
- Do not overuse foggers or spray.
- Read the warning instructions carefully before using the pesticides.
- Place the pesticides away from the reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where should I store roach killers at home?
As a thumb rule, all roach or insect killers must be stored in a separate closed cupboard, shelf, or box which is kept away from fire, sunlight, food, body care items, and the reach of children.
2. Is roach killer safe for pets and babies?
Being potent and poisonous, no roach killer is safe for pets or babies. They are to be kept away from the roach killer containers. It’s better to shift your children and pets into another room during and a little after the spraying process to keep them away from the fumes. Clean the sprayed area thoroughly after the hunt, in case it’s accessible to pets or babies.
3. Where should I place a roach killer at home?
Cockroaches tend to reside in corners, crevices, and hidden places, so it would be ideal to place a commercial roach killer behind cabinets, refrigerators, dishwashers, or any other corners or crevices.
4. Is roach killer safe for pets and babies?
Roach killers are safe to use around pets and babies if you follow all the required precautions. Make sure that you keep it away from the reach of your children and pets after use.
The Bottom Line
Roach killers are among the most sought-after insecticides to eliminate pests such as cockroaches that can infest your home and garden. However, before you buy such a product, you should evaluate what type of roach killer your house requires. Our consumer-tested choices of the best roach killers are weather-proof, last long, and deliver seamless results. With features like non-staining formula and long-lasting bug barrier, the Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer is our best pick. For easy use, consider the Advion Cockroach Gel Bait, which comes in a gel-based formula and can be used indoors and outdoors for efficient pest control. Also, choose non-toxic products that do not emit a foul odor to avoid harming your family or pets, such as the Max Magma Home Pest Spray.
Infographic: How To Use Roach Killers Safely?
Roach killers are formulated with strong chemicals and pesticides, which may be harmful to humans if ingested. Therefore, pregnant women and children must stay away from the area where the roach killer is applied. Check out the below infographics to learn more about the safe usage of roach killers. Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have sought out the top-rated roach killers in the market by conducting extensive research on multiple reliable online forums. These premium-quality sprays will save your precious lawns and beautiful interiors from being damaged by these harmful insects. These products are chosen after considering user reviews to ensure an unbiased opinion. We have also listed the pros and cons of each product and the features to look out for to help you easily make the right choice.
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our vibrant community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with like-minded individuals.
Read full bio of Nicole Carpenter
Read full bio of Shreya Vishwanathan
