Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do I get rid of the roach smell in my house?

It took me forever to clear out the cockroach infestation from my house. Now, weeks after I had them exterminated, the house still stinks. The odor is even harder to kill than the roaches were. How can I get the smell of roaches out of my house?

avatar
Patrick Price · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m sorry to hear you’re dealing with roach odor. The smell can be one of the worst parts of a roach infestation, especially since it can linger after they’re gone. You’re going to need to remove their bodies and thoroughly disinfect all affected surfaces.
Roaches produce a very unpleasant oily must smell, which tends to linger. The first and most important step in combating their smell is, of course, to eradicate the infestation.
If you’ve already exterminated the roaches but the smell is still lingering, there are a few things you can do:
  • Remove the roaches’ bodies and feces. This is an important step because the feces and carcasses of dead cockroaches can foster disease if left unattended.
  • Vacuum your entire house. This will ensure you get rid of any unnoticed roach feces, legs, or wings.
  • Carefully clean and disinfect all affected areas. Apart from the smell, roaches can carry disease and allergens, so disinfecting is important.
  • Place out bowls of vinegar. Vinegar is a great natural way to absorb odors.
Now that you finally have your home free of roaches and their nasty smell, you’ll want to make sure your home stays protected with a good
home insurance policy
.
If you want cheap home and renters insurance quotes fast, go to
Jerry
. A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and helps to cancel your old policy. Even better—Jerry will help you bundle your home and auto policies for maximum savings.
MORE: How to remove bugs, tar, and sap from car paint
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings