How to Destroy Cockroaches by A. E.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 23, 1910

How to Destroy Cockroaches

By A. E.

“SCAVENGERS of the household” is the name given to cockroaches in a recent number of Good Housekeeping. However, in homes that are neatly kept, their good offices are not desired; and it is well to know a sure way to rid the premises of their unwelcome presence. Pyrethrum powder, a dark-yellow powder made from daisies raised in California, is recommended as an excellent exterminator.

“The powder is not poisonous,” and can be purchased in any drug-store at from ten to fifteen cents a pound in bulk. The best way to rid a kitchen of roaches is to take out all articles that might be soiled by the powder, and then throw handfuls of it into the cracks and crannies where the roaches hide. In a minute or so they will be seen stumbling out of their retreats. They will tumble about and fall drunkenly. As a matter of fact, they are suffocating. Since they breathe through spiracles, or holes, along their sides, and not through their mouths, the powder enters into these spiracles when they attempt to run through it. After the kitchen has been well powdered, the doors and windows should be closed overnight. In the morning the dead roaches will be found lying scattered everywhere.”

Another excellent way to destroy cockroaches is to sprinkle the sink, shelves, and all cracks and corners thickly with powdered borax.

A. E.