Top 10 most common harbourages for German cockroaches
German cockroaches are among the most persistent and troublesome pests found in UAE homes and commercial spaces. Their ability to hide in small, undisturbed spaces makes them difficult to detect and even harder to eliminate.
Below are the ten most common places where German cockroaches are likely to thrive:
1. Plumbing fixtures
Cockroaches are drawn to moisture, and plumbing areas offer exactly that. Drains, pipe entry points, and sink bases provide the perfect combination of darkness, warmth, and humidity. Bathrooms are particularly vulnerable, making them the ideal starting point for any inspection.
2. Cracks and crevices
Loose door or window frames, chipped skirting boards, and cracked tiles create easy entry points and nesting zones. These spaces often go unnoticed—especially in older buildings—and offer shelter for roaches to breed and multiply. Sealing these gaps is critical to long-term prevention.
3. Furniture
Cushioned chairs, sofas, and mattresses with deep seams or concealed corners are prime hiding spots. Upholstered furniture provides warmth and cover, especially if it is rarely cleaned or inspected. German cockroaches may also lay eggs in textured materials, making regular checks essential.
4. Cardboard and paper
Cockroaches thrive in moist, cellulose-rich materials. Old boxes, newspapers, and art supplies stored in damp or poorly ventilated areas provide both shelter and a food source. Replace cardboard storage with plastic containers whenever possible to minimise risk.
5. Books and bookshelves
Books left untouched for long periods offer plenty of hiding space for cockroaches, especially paperbacks and thick hardcovers. Bookshelves with clutter can also retain heat and humidity. Dust and inspect these areas regularly to deter pests.
6. Storage areas
Closets, utility rooms, and storerooms are often dark and undisturbed, making them ideal for nesting. Items such as old clothing, fabric, and wood provide perfect harborage conditions. Declutter these spaces frequently and ensure proper ventilation.
7. Kitchen cabinets
Cabinets, especially those under the sink or close to cooking areas, are notorious for harbouring cockroaches. Leftover crumbs, grease, and even water droplets can attract them. Daily cleaning, sealing gaps, and storing food in airtight containers are key to keeping your kitchen pest-free.
8. Appliances
Warmth from motors and leftover food particles attracts cockroaches to appliances such as fridges, ovens, microwaves, and even coffee machines. These pests often live inside or behind the units. Clean under, behind, and inside appliances routinely to prevent infestations.
9. Decorative items
Cockroaches can hide behind wall clocks, picture frames, and inside decorative vases or sculptures—especially if these items are rarely moved or cleaned. Always include decorative objects in your regular cleaning schedule.
10. Ceilings and false ceilings
If your infestation seems to persist despite thorough cleaning, the source may be above you. German cockroaches are known to hide in ceiling cracks, ventilation systems, and false ceilings. These areas should be professionally inspected if other efforts fail.
Need help eliminating German cockroaches?
At PROSHIELD, we specialise in identifying and treating German cockroach infestations across residential and commercial properties in the UAE. Our municipality-approved technicians use professional-grade solutions to locate hidden harbourages, treat the source, and prevent future re-infestations. Book your inspection with PROSHIELD today and reclaim your space.
If you would like a free, no obligation pest control quote please click here and we will get back to you within a few hours.
