Oriental Cockroaches
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read

Of all the cockroach species that invade Southern California homes, Oriental cockroaches are some of the most unpleasant to deal with. Large, dark, and drawn to moisture, these pests sneak into damp corners of your home and can quickly become a serious problem. Here’s what you need to know about identifying them, where they hide, why they show up, and the best ways to get rid of Oriental cockroaches for good.
What Do Oriental Cockroaches Look Like?
Oriental cockroaches are often called “water bugs” because of their love for damp places. They’re shiny black or dark reddish-brown and can grow over an inch long, making them one of the larger roach species you’ll see indoors. Males have short wings that don’t fully cover their bodies, while females have almost no wings at all—neither can fly.
Unlike the fast-moving German cockroach, Oriental cockroaches are slower, but their size and glossy appearance make them especially noticeable (and creepy) when you spot one.
Where Do They Hide?
These roaches are moisture-seekers. You’ll most often find them:
In basements, crawl spaces, or garages
Around drains, leaky pipes, and utility lines
Under sinks, dishwashers, and washing machines
In piles of damp mulch, leaves, or yard debris outside
If there’s a dark, damp space nearby, chances are Oriental cockroaches are making themselves comfortable.
Why Do Oriental Cockroaches Come Inside?
In Rialto, Fontana, and the surrounding areas, Oriental cockroaches are especially active during the warmer months. They often move indoors when outdoor conditions are too hot, too dry, or too cold, searching for three things:
Moisture to survive
Food scraps or organic matter
Shelter from the weather
Once inside, they often spread to kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms—anywhere with a steady water source.
Why They’re a Problem
Seeing one is bad enough, but Oriental cockroaches carry bacteria that can contaminate food, counters, and household surfaces. They also produce a strong, unpleasant odor when infestations grow. Because they thrive in unsanitary environments, their presence is a health risk you don’t want to ignore.
How to Get Rid of Oriental Cockroaches
To control Oriental cockroaches, you’ll need a mix of prevention and treatment:
Fix leaks and reduce moisture: Repair plumbing issues, improve ventilation, and keep drains clear.
Seal cracks and entry points: Close gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.
Cut off food sources: Store food in sealed containers, clean up crumbs, and take out the trash often.
Remove outdoor harborage: Keep mulch, woodpiles, and leaf litter away from your home’s foundation.
Professional pest control: DIY efforts may reduce sightings, but professional treatments eliminate nests at the source and prevent them from coming back.
At TruPest Solutions, our 5-Point Service targets Oriental cockroaches with proven treatments, keeping your home clean, comfortable, and pest-free year-round.
👉 Call us today at 951-334-5288 to schedule your Oriental cockroach treatment in Rialto, Fontana, and surrounding areas!