How your bathwater could be inviting cockroaches into your home, warns UK pest expert
If you're squeamish, one pest expert has some unsettling news. A common bathroom blunder may invite cockroaches into your home.
Joshua Houston, a property specialist at Household Quotes, said: "No one wants pests inside their home, so it’s important that you take into consideration the areas of your property that are vulnerable. The last thing you want is to see a cockroach running up the wall while you’re having a shower."
Joshua's advice centres on how you leave your shower or bath after use. He emphasised that leftover water can be 'an ideal breeding ground' for these creatures - particularly if the room is already damp, warm and humid.
"Also, given we don’t spend much time in the bathroom it allows for these pests to easily multiply," he added. Currently, there are two main types of cockroach found in the UK, according to Newcastle City Council.
Although small, these pesky grey insects can be a hassle to deal with. They may eat anything and everything in sight - whether that's your brand new wallpaper or favourite dress.
So, besides ensuring your tub is well-drained, it's vital to ventilate your bathroom too.
"It's also not hard to keep some of these pests out of your home, in certain cases it’s as simple as picking up after yourself," Joshua added. He further suggested maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen by thoroughly cleaning countertops and floors, since any crumbs can attract unwanted pests into your home.
His advice went on: "Kitchens are popular with pests [too] as it’s the area of your home where you cook and prepare food. It’s not uncommon for pieces to fall on the floor, which attracts pests looking for an easy meal. Ensure that all food that is spilt on the countertop or floor is cleaned up quickly, this will give pests nothing."