Worried about not knowing how to get rid of water bugs in your home. Worry not, because got you covered.
If you’re spotting big, roach-like “water bugs” near sinks, tubs, or basement drains, the fastest way to get rid of them is to:
- Cut the moisture
- Seal entry points
- Clean and treat high-risk areas
- Use targeted baits
To underscore how common this is, about 14 million U.S. households reported seeing roaches in the past 12 months, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey (2019).
What Exactly Are Water Bugs?
“Water bug” is a term people often use loosely to describe several different insects, including true aquatic species and certain cockroaches that thrive in moist environments.
True water bugs, such as Belostomatidae (giant water bugs), actually live in water. They have flat, oval bodies and use their legs like paddles to swim. These insects rarely invade homes.
However, most “water bugs” found indoors are actually American cockroaches (Periplaneta americana), which prefer humid, warm areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
They can grow up to two inches long and are reddish-brown with a glossy body. While they don’t live in water, they’re often found near it – hence the confusion.
Recognizing whether you’re dealing with true aquatic water bugs or cockroach-type water bugs helps determine the right elimination strategy.
READ: What is the Most Hated Bugs
Why You’re Seeing Them: Common Causes of Water Bug Infestations
Water bugs are opportunists. They enter homes seeking food, moisture, and shelter. Here are the most common causes:
- Excess Moisture: Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and standing water in sinks or basements create ideal breeding grounds.
- Food Sources: Crumbs, pet food, and organic debris attract them, especially at night.
- Warm, Humid Conditions: Summer months in New England can trigger population surges as humidity rises.
- Entry Points: Cracks in foundations, gaps around doors, or uncovered drains can serve as gateways.
- Cluttered or Unclean Spaces: Cardboard boxes, paper piles, and damp storage areas provide perfect hiding spots.
When these factors combine, a few stray bugs can quickly turn into an infestation.
DIY Ways to Get Rid of Water Bugs
If you’ve spotted one or two water bugs, there are effective steps you can take before calling in the professionals. The key is to act fast and stay consistent.
1. Eliminate Moisture
Since water bugs thrive in damp areas, start by fixing leaks under sinks, around toilets, or in basements. Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low (below 50% is ideal). Make sure drains flow properly and there’s no standing water anywhere indoors.
2. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks, crevices, and gaps. Apply caulk around windows, doors, and foundation openings. Install drain covers in floor drains or shower areas, and replace worn weather-stripping under doors.
3. Clean Thoroughly
Water bugs are drawn to food residues. Regularly clean kitchen counters, floors, and behind appliances. Don’t forget to empty trash daily and store pet food in sealed containers.
4. Use Natural Repellents
Several natural remedies can help reduce small infestations:
- Boric acid powder: Sprinkle a light layer along baseboards and behind appliances.
- Baking soda + sugar mix: Attracts and kills roaches when ingested.
- Diatomaceous earth: A non-toxic powder that damages the exoskeleton of bugs on contact.
Remember to keep these away from pets and children.
5. Apply Safe Insecticides
For persistent activity, use a commercial cockroach gel bait or spray labeled for indoor use. Follow all safety instructions carefully and avoid over-application. Overuse of chemicals can create resistance or pose unnecessary risks to your household.
If you continue to see water bugs after trying these steps for a week or two, it’s time to consider professional help.
READ: What Cleaning Product Do Bugs Hate
When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service
DIY methods can help reduce water bug populations, but they rarely reach hidden breeding sites behind walls or inside drains. Call a Manchester pest control expert if:
- You’re seeing multiple bugs daily or in several rooms.
- There’s a musty odor or visible egg cases.
- You notice water bug bites (though rare, they can happen with giant water bugs).
- You’ve already used sprays and traps with little success.
At this stage, a professional inspection ensures the root cause whether plumbing issues, poor sealing, or hidden nests is properly addressed.
At MVM Pest Control, our licensed technicians are trained to identify the specific type of infestation and design a targeted treatment plan. We use environmentally friendly products and methods that are both safe for your family and effective against stubborn pests.
How Professionals Get Rid of Water Bugs
Professional pest control services go far beyond surface treatments. Here’s what to expect from an expert approach:
- Comprehensive Inspection – Technicians identify infestation sites, entry points, and moisture sources.
- Customized Treatment Plan – Depending on severity, this may include baiting, targeted insecticide applications, or drain treatments.
- Follow-Up Visits – Monitoring ensures complete eradication and prevents reinfestation.
- Moisture Management & Sanitation Guidance – Professionals help you make practical adjustments to avoid attracting pests again.
MVM Pest Control emphasizes long-term prevention through eco-conscious pest management, not just one-time extermination. Our goal is to make sure pests don’t come back.
Prevention Tips to Keep Water Bugs Away for Good
Once your home is bug-free, proactive maintenance keeps it that way. Here’s how to prevent future infestations:
- Fix Leaks Promptly – Even a small drip can attract pests.
- Ventilate Damp Areas – Use fans or vents in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
- Maintain Clean Drains – Flush them weekly with a mix of vinegar and baking soda.
- Store Food Properly – Seal dry goods and wipe counters after meals.
- Eliminate Outdoor Moisture – Clean gutters, remove standing water, and ensure your yard drains well.
- Schedule Regular Pest Inspections – Annual or semi-annual check-ups with MVM Pest Control can detect early warning signs before infestations develop.
Consistency is key. The cleaner, drier, and more sealed your home is, the less likely it is to become a water bug haven.
Conclusion
Water bugs are resilient, but with the right combination of cleaning, moisture control, and professional treatment, you can eliminate them completely. Identifying the problem early and acting decisively makes all the difference.
If you’ve tried DIY fixes and still see these unwelcome guests, don’t wait for the infestation to grow. Schedule a free inspection with MVM Pest Control today. Our experts use safe, science-backed methods to keep your home pest-free.
