Diy Roach Control: Homemade Roach Bait Solutions

Dealing with a roach infestation can be frustrating, but it doesn’t always require reaching for commercial insecticides; many homeowners are turning to DIY roach control as an effective method that uses common household items to create a homemade roach bait. These solutions often incorporate ingredients like boric acid, known for its insecticidal properties, and are strategically placed to target the pests, offering a more natural approach to pest control compared to synthetic chemicals.

• Picture this: You stroll into your kitchen, ready for a midnight snack, flip on the light, and BAM! A whole squad of roaches scatters like they’re auditioning for a horror movie. Sound familiar? You’re not alone! Cockroach infestations are a super common household headache that many of us have to deal with. It’s annoying, a little gross, and can make your skin crawl just thinking about it.

• Now, when faced with these creepy crawlies, it’s tempting to reach for the heavy-duty stuff, the chemical warfare options promising instant annihilation. But hold up! More and more homeowners are turning to home remedies. Why? Well, think about it: those chemical pesticides can be pricey, and let’s be real, kinda scary to use around kids and pets. Plus, there’s that whole environmental thing. Who wants to douse their home in toxic chemicals if they don’t have to?

• That’s where this blog comes in. We’re diving deep into the world of effective home remedies for roaches. We will learn how to take back our homes, naturally! Think of it as your DIY guide to eviction.

• However, a reality check is needed, friends. While we’re all about natural solutions, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations. Sometimes, you’re dealing with a full-blown roach apocalypse that requires professional backup. We’ll also cover when it’s time to throw in the towel and call the pros. We want to keep your home pest-free and your sanity intact!

Know Your Enemy: Identifying Common Roach Species

Alright, so you’re ready to kick those roaches out, huh? But before you go all Rambo on these creepy crawlies, let’s take a sec to figure out who exactly you’re dealing with. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t use the same workout for your biceps as you would for your calves, right? Same goes for roaches! Knowing your enemy is half the battle, my friend.

Why Bother Identifying Them? Because different roach species have different habits, preferences, and weaknesses. Tailoring your approach based on the specific kind of cockroach invading your space is going to be way more effective than just throwing any old remedy at the problem. You’ll be able to target their favorite hangout spots and exploit their unique vulnerabilities.

Roach Lineup: Meet the Usual Suspects

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and identify some of the most common roach species you might find chilling in your home:

The German Cockroach: Apartment Life’s Unwelcome Guest

Picture this: small, light brown, and always up to no good. That’s your German cockroach. They’re the most common type you’ll find scurrying around inside, and they absolutely adore warm, humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms. These guys are prolific breeders, so if you see one, chances are there are a whole lot more hiding nearby. These are usually found in apartments.

The American Cockroach: Big, Bold, and Basement-Bound

Get ready for a size upgrade! American cockroaches are the big boys of the roach world, reddish-brown in color and preferring dark, damp areas like basements, drains, and sewers. They’re like the goth kids of the roach world, always lurking in the shadows.

The Oriental Cockroach: The Damp-Loving Outdoorsman

These guys are dark brown or almost black and have a thing for cool, damp places. You’ll often find them outdoors, near decaying organic matter, but they’ll happily wander inside in search of food and water. Think of them as the “I love the outdoors but also free food” kind of roach.

The Brown-Banded Cockroach: The Adaptable Homebody

Similar in size to German cockroaches but with distinctive light brown bands across their bodies, these roaches are a bit more flexible when it comes to their living conditions. They can tolerate drier environments, so you might find them in living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where German cockroaches might not thrive as well. This makes them very adaptable when it comes to drier climates.

Pro Tip: Take a good look at the pictures or diagrams below to get a visual on each of these roach types. Once you’ve nailed the identification, you’ll be ready to move on to the next step: building your arsenal of homemade roach killers!

The Arsenal: Key Ingredients for Homemade Roach Killers

So, you’re ready to wage war on those creepy crawlies, huh? Excellent! But before you charge into battle, you’ll need the right weapons. Forget the expensive, chemical-laden stuff – we’re going au naturel, baby! Here’s a rundown of the most effective, readily available ingredients you can find around your house (or at your local store) to send those roaches packing… or, well, six-feet under.

• Sub-heading: Boric Acid: The Roach’s Silent Killer

  Think of boric acid as a sneaky assassin. It’s a naturally occurring mineral that acts as a stomach poison for roaches. They walk through it, ingest it while grooming, and BAM! curtains.

  • How it works: It disrupts their digestive system.
  • Application: Dust it lightly in areas where roaches travel (under sinks, behind appliances). Mix it with sugar or flour to create a tempting bait.
  • Safety First! Keep boric acid away from kids and pets. Avoid breathing it in – a little dusting is all you need.

• Sub-heading: Diatomaceous Earth (DE): The Dehydrator

  Ever heard of Diatomaceous Earth (DE)? No? Well, you’re about to. This stuff is made from fossilized algae. Sounds harmless, right? For us, it is! But for roaches, it’s like walking through a desert of razor-sharp glass (microscopic, of course). It scratches their exoskeleton, causing them to dry out and die.

  • Food-Grade vs. Other Types: This is crucial. Only use food-grade DE. Pool-grade DE is harmful to humans and pets.
  • How it works: Desiccation (drying out).
  • Application: Dust a thin layer in areas where roaches roam.
  • Safety Warning: Always use food-grade DE and avoid dust inhalation by wearing a mask. Seriously, wear a mask!

• Sub-heading: Borax: Boric Acid’s Cousin

  Think of borax as boric acid’s slightly less effective but still powerful cousin. It works similarly, disrupting their digestive system.

  • How it works: Similar to boric acid – a stomach poison.
  • Recipes for Baits: Mix it with sugar or cornstarch to create a tasty (and deadly) treat.
  • Application: Place borax baits in areas where roaches frequent.
  • Safety Considerations: Keep it away from kids and pets.

• Sub-heading: Sugar: The Sweet Temptation

  Okay, sugar isn’t a killer, but it’s the ultimate roach attractant. It lures them in, making them more likely to munch on the real poison.

  • Why it’s used: It’s like ringing the dinner bell for roaches.
  • Best Combinations: Mix it with boric acid or borax for a deadly-delicious combo.

• Sub-heading: Dish Soap: The Suffocator

  Believe it or not, good old dish soap can be a roach’s worst nightmare! It works by breaking down the waxy coating on their exoskeleton, causing them to suffocate.

  • How it works: Suffocation.
  • Application: Mix dish soap with water in a spray bottle and spray directly on roaches.
  • Effectiveness: Best used for direct contact – it won’t eliminate an infestation, but it can take out the ones you see.

DIY Roach Control Methods: Recipes and Application Techniques

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get those unwelcome guests evicted? Let’s dive into the exciting world of DIY roach control! Forget calling the exterminator just yet; we’re about to unleash some seriously effective home remedies. Think of yourself as a culinary artist, but instead of a Michelin star, you’re aiming for a roach-free haven.

Baiting: The Roach Bistro

Think of baiting as setting up a sneaky little restaurant that only serves…well, poison. But hey, they don’t need to know that!

• Recipes:

  • Boric Acid Delight: Mix equal parts boric acid, sugar, and a little bit of water to form a paste. The sugar lures them in, while the boric acid sends them packing (permanently).
  • Borax Bonanza: Similar to the boric acid recipe, but with borax instead. These two are like the dynamic duo of roach control!
  • Sweet Temptation: For an extra zing, mix boric acid or borax with sugar and a dollop of peanut butter or jelly. It’s like the cockroach version of a gourmet meal.

• Placement Strategies:

  • Under Sinks: Prime real estate for roaches seeking water.
  • Behind Appliances: Warm and cozy spots where crumbs often lurk.
  • Dark Corners: Roach hideouts 101.

• Making Baits Irresistible:

  • Adding peanut butter or jelly to your baits makes them extra attractive. It’s like advertising your roach motel with a flashing neon sign: “Free food!”

Repelling: The Scent Shield

If baiting is like setting a trap, repelling is like building a natural force field. It won’t necessarily kill them, but it will make them think twice about sticking around.

• Natural Repellents:

  • Vinegar: Roaches hate the smell of vinegar. It’s like their kryptonite.
  • Essential Oils: Peppermint and tea tree oil are potent roach repellents. They smell great to us but are offensive to roaches. Win-win!

• Application Techniques:

  • Spraying: Mix vinegar or essential oils with water in a spray bottle and spritz around entry points.
  • Soaked Cotton Balls: Place cotton balls soaked in essential oils in areas where roaches frequent. It’s like setting up tiny, fragrant no-go zones.

• Limitations:

  • Repellents may only move roaches to a new location. It’s like they’re playing musical chairs with your house. For a full eviction, you need to combine with other methods.

Dehydration: The Desertification Protocol

Time to turn your home into a roach-unfriendly desert! Diatomaceous earth (DE) is the magic ingredient here.

• Diatomaceous Earth (DE):

  • Make sure it’s food-grade. This is crucial for safety!

• Application Best Practices:

  • Apply a thin layer in dry areas where roaches travel. Think of it as setting up tiny, razor-sharp obstacles that dehydrate them on contact.

• Reapplication:

  • Reapply after cleaning or if the DE gets wet. It needs to stay dry to work its magic.

Suffocation: The Soap Opera

Sometimes, you just need a quick and direct solution. That’s where dish soap comes in!

• Dish Soap Solutions:

  • Mix dish soap with water in a spray bottle.

• When and How to Use:

  • Spray directly onto roaches. It’s like a soapy ambush!

• Effectiveness:

  • Dish soap works by blocking their respiratory openings, effectively suffocating them. It’s most effective on direct contact.

5. Essential Tools and Equipment for Roach Control: Arm Yourself!

Okay, so you’re ready to wage war on these creepy crawlies? Awesome! But before you go all-in, remember the old saying, “A craftsman is only as good as his tools.” The same applies to your roach-busting mission. You wouldn’t go into battle without a sword, right? (Well, maybe you would, but I sure wouldn’t). Let’s gather our arsenal, shall we? It’s not all about the ingredients; having the right equipment makes all the difference between a half-hearted attempt and a triumph over those pesky roaches.

Spray Bottles: Your Liquid Delivery System

These aren’t just for misting your plants (though they can do that too!). We’re talking about deploying liquid solutions like dish soap concoctions or vinegar sprays.

• Choosing Wisely: Look for bottles with adjustable nozzles. You want the option for a direct stream for precision targeting, or a wide mist for covering larger areas. Durable material is key – you don’t want your weapon of choice dissolving in the face of victory (or vinegar!).
• Pro Tip: Label your bottles! Trust me, you don’t want to accidentally spray your salad with roach repellent. A simple marker and some clear labeling can save you from a culinary catastrophe.

Small Containers: Bait Stations for Tiny Guests (They’re Not Invited!)

Think of these as little all-you-can-eat buffets… but with a deadly secret ingredient.

• Safety First: Placement is crucial. We’re talking under sinks, behind appliances – places where curious kids and furry friends can’t easily reach.
• Container Choices: Old jar lids, small plastic tubs, or even bottle caps can work. The goal is to provide easy access for the roaches while keeping the bait contained and away from innocent bystanders.

Dusters/Applicators: The Fine Art of DE Deployment

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is powerful, but it needs to be applied just right. You’re not trying to create a DE snowstorm, that’s for sure.

• Getting the Right Tool: A small duster (like those used for applying powdered pesticides) is perfect for getting DE into cracks, crevices, and hard-to-reach spots.
• Maintenance Matters: After each use, clean your duster to prevent clogs. A simple brush or a blast of compressed air can keep it in top working condition. Store it in a dry place to prevent the DE from clumping.

Vacuum Cleaner: Cleaning Up the Crime Scene

Okay, maybe it’s not exactly a crime scene, but let’s face it, roach infestations can feel like a violation. Your vacuum cleaner is your clean-up crew.

• Beyond the Obvious: Vacuuming up roach debris, dead roaches, and food crumbs is essential. This deprives them of food sources and eliminates allergens.
• HEPA to the Rescue: If you or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is a MUST. It traps even the tiniest particles, preventing them from circulating in the air.

Caulk Gun: Sealing the Fortress

Think of your home as a castle, and those cracks and gaps are the unguarded gates. A caulk gun is your royal sealant.

• Identify the Vulnerabilities: Look for cracks in walls, gaps around pipes, and openings around windows and doors. These are the roach highways into your home.
• Application is Key: Load the caulk gun properly, cut the nozzle at an angle, and apply a smooth, even bead of caulk. Smooth it out with your finger for a professional finish. This not only blocks roach entry but also improves insulation!

With these tools in hand, you’re ready to turn your home into a roach-free zone. Remember, it’s not just about killing the ones you see; it’s about preventing future invasions. Now, go forth and conquer!

Targeting Roach Hotspots: A Room-by-Room Guide

Okay, so you’re ready to wage war on those creepy crawlies and reclaim your home, room by room? Awesome! Roaches are sneaky little devils, and they’ve got their favorite hideouts. Knowing where they love to hang out is half the battle. Let’s grab our detective hats and raid each room like we’re on a mission to eradicate every single roach.

The Kitchen: Roach Central

Ah, the kitchen, a roach’s dream buffet! Food particles, spills, and warm hiding spots make it the perfect party place for these unwanted guests.

• Food Storage: Get serious about airtight containers. Roaches are like tiny food critics—they appreciate a good meal!
• Waste Management: Keep that garbage bin sealed tight and take out the trash regularly. A clean trash can equals a sad roach.
• Cleaning Spills: Wipe up spills immediately. Don’t give roaches a reason to celebrate!
• Under Sinks: This is a roach hotspot. Make sure it’s dry, clean, and apply some diatomaceous earth (DE) for extra security.
• Behind Appliances: Pull out the fridge and stove every now and then to vacuum and check for activity. You might be surprised (and disgusted) by what you find!

Bathroom: The Oasis for Roaches

Moisture, moisture, moisture! Roaches are attracted to water like we’re attracted to pizza.

• Moisture Control: Fix leaky faucets and pipes ASAP. A dry bathroom is a roach’s nightmare.
• Cleaning Drains: Use drain cleaner regularly to get rid of gunk that roaches feed on.
• Ventilating the Room: Run the fan after showers to reduce humidity. Let’s make it less inviting for our uninvited guests.

Basement: The Dark and Damp Dungeon

Basements are often damp, dark, and full of clutter—perfect roach real estate.

• Managing Dampness: Use a dehumidifier to keep the basement dry.
• Improving Ventilation: Open windows or use fans to circulate air.
• Sealing Cracks: Seal any cracks in the foundation or walls to prevent roaches from entering.
• Removing Clutter: Get rid of old boxes and other junk that roaches love to hide in.

Cracks and Crevices: Roach Hideaways

Roaches love squeezing into tight spots where they feel safe and can breed.

• Why They Hide: Cracks and crevices offer protection from predators and a cozy place to lay eggs.
• Effective Methods: Dust these areas with boric acid or DE, then seal them up with caulk.

Walls: The Roach Apartment Complex

If you hear scurrying inside your walls, you’ve got a serious problem.

• Addressing Roaches Within Walls: Use bait stations near wall openings.
• Safe Methods: Avoid drilling into walls. Consider using a pest control professional if the infestation is severe.

Floorboards: Undercover Roaches

Roaches can squeeze under and behind floorboards, creating a hidden network.

• Inspecting and Treating: Check for gaps and cracks, then apply DE or boric acid underneath.
• Preventing Infestations: Seal any gaps to prevent them from returning.

Pantry: The Roach Grocery Store

Similar to the kitchen, the pantry is a smorgasbord for roaches.

• Keeping it Clean: Regularly clean shelves and sweep up crumbs.
• Proper Food Storage: Use airtight containers to store grains, cereals, and other dry goods.

Garbage Areas: The Roach Cafeteria

Garbage areas are a major attractant for roaches, providing them with a constant food source.

• Managing Garbage Areas: Keep garbage cans clean and tightly sealed.
• Regular Cleaning and Proper Waste Disposal: Empty garbage regularly and clean up any spills or leaks.

By targeting these specific areas with the right techniques, you’ll be well on your way to a roach-free home. Happy hunting!

Safety First: Protecting Your Family and Pets

Hey, let’s talk safety! Dealing with roaches is one thing, but accidentally harming your furry friends or little ones in the process? No way! When mixing up those DIY roach solutions, it’s super important to keep everyone safe. Think of it like this: we’re trying to outsmart roaches, not accidentally create a hazard zone in our homes.

• Pet Safety

  Okay, pet parents, this one’s especially for you! Many home remedies can be harmful if ingested by your fur babies.

  • What’s the Worry?: Ingredients like boric acid or borax, while effective against roaches, can cause serious problems for pets. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Not fun for anyone!
  • Safe Solutions:
    • Pet-Safe Baits: Look for baits specifically designed to be safe around pets. These usually contain lower concentrations of active ingredients or use different attractants that are less appealing to animals.
    • Strategic Placement: Put baits and traps in areas your pets can’t reach – behind appliances, inside cabinets (if they can’t get in there!), or high up on shelves.
    • Natural Repellents: Consider using natural repellents that are less toxic to pets, like essential oils (but be careful, some essential oils are toxic to pets!), or citrus peels.
    • Supervise: Closely monitor your pets’ behavior around treated areas to ensure they don’t get curious and ingest anything they shouldn’t.
    • Consult Your Vet: If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular remedy, check with your veterinarian.

• Child Safety

  Little ones are naturally curious, which means they might be tempted to explore those interesting-looking baits you’ve set out.

  • What’s the Worry?: Just like with pets, ingredients like boric acid and borax can be harmful if ingested by children.
  • Safe Solutions:
    • Out of Reach: Place baits and traps where kids can’t get to them – high up, behind furniture, or inside childproof cabinets.
    • Secure Containers: Use bait stations that are tamper-resistant or difficult for children to open.
    • Clear Labeling: Clearly label all containers with homemade remedies to avoid confusion. “Roach Bait – DO NOT TOUCH!” should do the trick.
    • Educate Your Kids: Teach children about the dangers of the baits and why they shouldn’t touch them.
    • Store Remedies Safely: Keep all ingredients and prepared remedies locked away and out of reach when not in use.
    • Supervision: When applying treatments, keep children out of the area until it’s safe.

• Irritation

  Even if you’re not a pet or a kid, some ingredients can still cause irritation if they come into contact with your skin, eyes, or respiratory system.

  • What’s the Worry?: Boric acid, diatomaceous earth (DE), and even dish soap can cause irritation.
  • Safe Solutions:
    • Protective Gear: Wear gloves and a mask when handling these ingredients to protect your skin and lungs.
    • Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to prevent eye irritation.
    • Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes or dust.
    • Wash Thoroughly: After handling any ingredients, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

• Dust Inhalation

  Diatomaceous earth (DE) is great for dehydrating roaches, but it can also irritate your lungs if you breathe it in.

  • What’s the Worry?: DE is made of tiny, abrasive particles that can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled.
  • Safe Solutions:
    • Use Food-Grade DE: Make sure you’re using food-grade DE, which is safer than industrial-grade.
    • Avoid Creating Dust Clouds: Apply DE carefully to avoid creating dust clouds.
    • Wear a Mask: Wear a dust mask or respirator when applying DE to protect your lungs.
    • Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in the area you’re treating.

  Basically, a little bit of caution goes a long way. By taking these safety precautions, you can tackle your roach problem without putting your loved ones at risk.

Effectiveness and Limitations: When Home Remedies Are Enough

Alright, so you’ve got your DIY arsenal ready, you’re practically a roach-fighting ninja with your boric acid and DE. But let’s get real for a sec – are these home remedies actually going to win the war against these resilient creepy crawlies? The truth? It’s a bit of a mixed bag, kinda like that suspicious fruitcake your aunt gives you every year.

Efficacy Against Different Roach Species: Not All Roaches Are Created Equal

Think of roaches like different characters in a sitcom. The German cockroach, that tiny, light brown guy, is like the annoying neighbor who’s always borrowing sugar. They’re super common and breed like crazy, but a well-placed boric acid bait can usually take them down. The American cockroach, the big, reddish-brown dude, is more like the grumpy uncle who lives in the basement. They’re tougher and prefer damp areas, so you might need a more robust approach, like a combo of DE and sealing entry points. And don’t even get me started on the Oriental cockroach – they are an absolute menace!

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Solutions: The Roach Race

Some home remedies are like a quick sprint – they knock down a bunch of roaches fast, but don’t really solve the underlying problem. Dish soap spray, for example, is great for taking out the roaches you see, but it won’t stop new ones from showing up. Other remedies are more like a marathon, providing slower but more lasting control. Boric acid baits, for example, can take a while to work, but they can eliminate entire colonies over time. The best approach is to combine both short-term and long-term strategies for comprehensive control.

Severity of Infestation: When It’s Time to Call in the Pros

Let’s be honest, if you’re seeing dozens of roaches every day, you might be dealing with a full-blown infestation. Home remedies can help, but they might not be enough to completely eradicate the problem. Think of it like trying to bail out a sinking ship with a teacup. Sometimes, you need to call in the professionals – they have access to stronger pesticides and more advanced techniques. Plus, they can identify the source of the infestation and address it directly.

Preventative Measures: Keeping Roaches Away for Good

The best way to deal with roaches is to prevent them from ever moving in. Think of it like building a fortress around your home. Here are some key steps:

• Cleaning Regularly: Wipe up spills, sweep floors, and don’t leave food out. Roaches are attracted to crumbs and grease like moths to a flame.
• Sealing Entry Points: Caulk cracks and crevices, repair leaky pipes, and install screens on windows and doors. Roaches can squeeze through even the tiniest openings.
• Managing Moisture: Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and don’t let water accumulate in sinks or bathtubs. Roaches thrive in damp environments.
• Decluttering: Get rid of piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes, and other clutter that roaches can hide in. Think of it as spring cleaning, but with a purpose.

By taking these preventative measures, you can create a less hospitable environment for roaches and keep them from coming back. It’s like putting up a “No Vacancy” sign for unwanted guests.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): A Holistic Approach

Okay, so you’ve tried the boric acid, you’ve unleashed the diatomaceous earth, and maybe even had a chat with those roaches about moving out (hey, no judgment!). But if they’re still throwing parties in your pantry, it’s time to bring in the big guns—or, rather, a smarter strategy. Enter Integrated Pest Management (IPM), your long-term game plan for a roach-free existence.

Think of IPM as the “whole foods” approach to pest control. Instead of just nuking the problem with chemicals, it’s about creating an environment where roaches simply don’t want to hang out. It’s like telling them, “Sorry, the Wi-Fi’s terrible, and we only serve kale smoothies here.”

So, how does this IPM thing actually work? Well, it’s a mix-and-match of different tactics, all working together:

• Sanitation Superstar: This is where you become a cleaning ninja. We’re talking wiping up crumbs, fixing leaky faucets, and generally making sure there’s no food or water source for those critters. Think of it as canceling their dinner reservations.

  • The Power of a Clean Home: A clean home is less attractive to roaches, minimizing their food and water supply.

• Habitat Makeover: Time to get your DIY on! Seal those cracks, declutter those corners, and basically eliminate all those cozy hiding spots. It’s like turning their favorite dive bar into a brightly lit yoga studio.

  • Sealing Entry Points: Sealing cracks and crevices denies roaches entry and hiding spots.
  • Decluttering to Eliminate Hiding Places: Reducing clutter removes places where roaches can hide and breed.

• Home Remedy Heroes: Those boric acid baits and essential oil sprays? They still have a place in the IPM lineup! Think of them as the backup dancers supporting the main act.

  • Non-Toxic Roach Control: Safe and effective remedies that do not harm people or pets.

• Professional Backup (When Needed): Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you need to call in the pros. Think of them as the SWAT team for serious infestations. No shame in needing reinforcements!

  • Expert Infestation Control: Handling severe or persistent infestations where home remedies are insufficient.

The key here is sustainability. IPM isn’t a quick fix; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about creating a healthier, happier home for you and your family—one where roaches are simply unwelcome. It’s like saying, “This isn’t personal, roaches, but your lifestyle choices just don’t align with ours.”

So, there you have it! A few simple, at-home solutions to kick those pesky roaches to the curb. Give these a try, and hopefully, you can say goodbye to unwanted guests without breaking the bank or reaching for harsh chemicals. Good luck!