Rewritten & Expanded English Version

You may not know this, but mixing leftover rice with laundry detergent is an extremely effective and completely natural way to repel cockroaches. This simple household trick has been gaining attention because of how easy, inexpensive, and surprisingly powerful it is.

Why Does Mixing Leftover Rice With Laundry Detergent Work?

To naturally and efficiently drive cockroaches away from your home, you can try a simple method that requires only everyday ingredients: leftover rice and laundry detergent. This approach relies on the scent and composition of the mixture to attract roaches and eliminate them without the need for harsh chemical sprays.

Start by preparing a small bowl of leftover rice, laundry detergent, and brown sugar. Add one tablespoon of detergent and one tablespoon of brown sugar to the rice, then mix well. Next, pour in one cup of water and stir until the mixture becomes slightly thick and sticky.

Once your mixture is ready, place the bowl in corners or areas where cockroaches are often seen, such as under cabinets or near kitchen appliances. The sweet smell of the brown sugar will attract the roaches, while the detergent disrupts their respiratory system when consumed. This causes them to die shortly after eating the mixture. Not only is this method simple and natural, but it also avoids the strong odors and health concerns associated with chemical insecticides.

Two Additional Methods of Eliminating Cockroaches Using Soap

Method 1:
Mix 20 ml of liquid soap with 500 ml of water. Place small containers of this soap solution in areas like the base of cabinets or kitchen shelves. The scent of soap repels cockroaches and prevents them from approaching.

Method 2:


Use the same ratio as above, but dilute the mixture further and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray it directly onto areas where cockroaches usually crawl. The soapy water coats their bodies, blocking their breathing pores and killing them instantly.

While these methods work well, the most important step in getting rid of cockroaches completely is cutting off their food supply. Make sure all kitchen waste and leftover packaging are disposed of in a sealed trash bin. Store leftover food in airtight containers or wrap it securely and place it in the refrigerator. Used dishes should be washed and dried promptly to avoid attracting pests.

Keeping your kitchen clean and crumb-free is key to preventing cockroaches from returning.

Other Natural Ways to Repel Cockroaches

1. Using Alum (Phèn chua)

Alum has a strong smell that roaches dislike. Dissolve alum in warm water, then use the solution to mop your floors. Let it dry naturally so the scent settles deep into cracks and corners. With repeated use, cockroaches will avoid the treated areas entirely.

2. Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil is one of the most effective natural repellents. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water, pour it into a spray bottle, and apply it to common roach hiding spots such as sinks, kitchen corners, or bathroom areas. The cool, sharp scent keeps roaches away while remaining safe for humans and pets.

3. Citrus Peels (Orange and Lemon)

Dried orange and lemon peels give off a pleasant fragrance that roaches cannot tolerate. Simply place the dried peels in drawers, under sinks, or in cabinets. You can also dilute lemon juice with water and spray it around your kitchen—both to repel roaches and to freshen your home naturally.

4. Cleaning Drains With Baking Soda and Hot Water

Drains are common entry points for cockroaches. To block their access, dissolve one tablespoon of baking soda in a cup of warm water and pour it down the drain. Baking soda interferes with the digestive system of cockroaches, preventing them from crawling up the pipes into your home.

5. Repelling Cockroaches With Basil (Húng chó)

Place a handful of basil leaves in a mesh bag or clean nylon stocking. Tie it securely and dry it in the sun. The strong aroma of basil irritates cockroaches, making them avoid the area. You can hang or place these basil pouches in cupboards, pantries, or any dark corners where roaches tend to gather.