Tips for Using a Pesticide Yourself After applying the tips in the checklist, if you decide to use a pesticide yourself, you will need to decide what pesticide to buy, where to buy it, and how to use it. In addition to following the tips in the checklist, you can buy pesticide sprays, dusts, baits and traps that will help you control roaches. Buy a pesticide only if it is in the original manufacturer's can, bottle or box. Make sure the container has a label that lists the pesticide's chemical name and ingredients and directions for use. The label should say the pesticide is for roach control.
Baits are low-risk pesticides and work well for roach control.
If you use a roach bait, do not use a spray in the same area since the spray may repel the roaches and prevent the bait from doing its job. Boric acid and other pesticides should be used only according to the label's instructions. Do not use boric acid for roach control if the container does not say it can be used for roach control. Never buy pesticides from a flea market or from someone selling out of a car. Unfortunately, people can hurt themselves, their families and their pets if they don't use pesticides properly.