Can Cockroaches Swim in Water?

Yes, some cockroaches can swim in water, but they cannot survive in water for long periods of time. Certain species of cockroaches are able to hold their breath for up to 40 minutes, but after that they will drown. 

Which Types of Household Cockroaches Can Swim?

The most common types of cockroaches seen in homes include German cockroaches, American cockroaches, brown-banded cockroaches, and oriental cockroaches. 

German cockroaches are typically the ones you’ll see in your home, and they can survive in water for up to 15 minutes. However, if the water is warm or hot, they will typically die sooner. If you’re trying to kill a cockroach with water, it’s best to use warm or hot water mixed with soap to kill the roach quickly.

American cockroaches are also called water bugs due to the fact that they love sewers and drains. They are able to hold their breath for 30 minutes and can float in water for up to 40 minutes. This species of cockroach is also one of the fastest, which is why you tend to see American cockroaches in your bathroom or crawling out of your drains.

Brown-banded cockroaches are similar in size to German cockroaches, but they have wings and are able to fly. They prefer dry climates and are oftentimes found in bedrooms, closets, or in higher spaces of the home. Even though they don’t like water, nor need it to survive, they are still able to float for up to 30 minutes in water.

Oriental cockroaches are rather large, but aren’t quite as common as German and American roaches. They prefer wet areas, such as sewer systems, and are able to survive in water for up to half an hour.

Do Cockroaches Drown in Water?

Yes, eventually cockroaches will drown in water. Cockroaches need oxygen to survive, but some species can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes. After this time has passed, though, they will not be able to survive and will drown in water. Keep in mind, though, that cockroaches can “float” for longer periods of time because they are still getting oxygen.

What Type of Water Kills Cockroaches?

Cockroaches do not like warm or hot water, so if you’re trying to get rid of a cockroach, make sure your water temperature is above 100 degrees. Cold water will eventually kill a cockroach, too, but the cockroach would need to be fully submerged for up to 40 minutes.

Because certain species of cockroaches are able to live in drains, you can flush hot water down your drain pipe if you’re looking to keep your drains and bathroom free of roaches. However, while this method may kill some, it’s always best to use pest control services if you’re seeing roaches consistently.

The best type of homemade solution to kill a cockroach would be water mixed with soap. The soap prevents them from being able to breathe through their pores, and kills them much quicker than water alone.

As always, if you’re dealing with pesky cockroaches consistently, it’s best to call in the experts. Horne’s Pest Control has expert technicians that treat every home like it’s their own. 

Contact Horne’s Pest Control for a free estimate today!