Simple Green is a popular all-purpose cleaner known for its effectiveness in cleaning various surfaces and items. However, many homeowners often wonder: “Does Simple Green kill roaches?”
Simple Green, a well-known all-purpose cleaner, may kill some roaches on contact due to its strong cleaning properties potentially breaking down the roach’s waxy outer layer. However, it is not specifically designed or marketed for this purpose. For effective roach control, it is generally recommended to use products specifically designed for killing roaches.
What is Simple Green?
Simple Green is an American brand of cleaning products produced by Sunshine Makers, Inc. It’s a water-based solution that is non-flammable and safe for use on skin, though it may cause eye irritation. The cleaner is designed to remove tough stains, dirt, and grime from almost any washable surface, making it a versatile tool for many cleaning tasks. It is also used in environmental cleanup efforts.
Does Simple Green Kill Roaches?
While Simple Green has been reported to be effective in killing some insects such as ants and flies, there is no specific information available about its effectiveness against roaches. Roaches, like many insects, have a waxy outer layer on their exoskeleton that helps them retain moisture. A strong cleaner or degreaser like Simple Green could potentially break down this waxy layer, leading to dehydration and death of the roach. However, it’s important to note that Simple Green is not specifically designed or marketed as a roach killer.
Simple Green vs. Commercial Roach Killers
When it comes to roach killers, there are several commercially available products that are designed specifically for this purpose. These include sprays, gels, powders, traps, and more. Some of these products are designed to kill roaches on contact, while others work by luring roaches to a bait that they then take back to their nest, creating a chain reaction that kills off the entire nest.
Natural Alternatives
There are several natural or “green” insecticides that can be used to kill roaches. These include cayenne, garlic, and onion powder; tea tree oil; borax and sugar; diatomaceous earth; baking soda and onion; essential oils; cockroach repellent plants; green leaf cockroach killing bait; and soapy water.
Conclusion
While Simple Green may kill some roaches on contact, it’s not specifically designed for this purpose and may not be as effective as products specifically designed for roach control. It’s generally recommended to use products specifically designed for roach control for the most effective results. If you’re dealing with a roach infestation, you might consider using a combination of methods such as boric acid, baking soda and sugar mixture, or commercial roach baits and traps. Additionally, maintaining good sanitation practices and sealing potential entry points can help prevent roach infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Simple Green?
Simple Green is a water-based solution that contains ethoxylated alcohol, sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, tetrasodium glutamate diacetate, and colorant.
Is Simple Green harmful to pets?
Simple Green is generally safe for use around pets. However, it should be used as directed and not allowed to be ingested by pets.
Can Simple Green be used outdoors?
Yes, Simple Green can be used outdoors. It is a versatile cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including outdoor furniture, grills, and more.
Can Simple Green be used as a disinfectant?
Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner is not registered as a disinfectant. However, the company does produce a specific product line called Simple Green Clean Finish that is designed to clean, disinfect and deodorize.
Can I use Simple Green on wood surfaces?
Yes, Simple Green can be used on wood surfaces. However, it’s important to test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not discolor or damage the wood.
