Cockroach Bait Calculator

Example data table

Numbers are illustrative. Your output changes with selections.

Formula used

• Convert area: m² × 10.7639 = sq ft.
• Base points: ceil((area_sqft ÷ coverage_per_point) × infestation_multiplier × environment_multiplier).
• Zone split: points_per_zone = ceil(base_points ÷ zones), then clamp between min and max.
• Total points: points_total = points_per_zone × zones.
• Quantity: gel/granular total = points_total × amount_per_point × potency_factor.
• Spacing: spacing_ft ≈ √(area_sqft ÷ points_total) as a rough guide.

How to use this calculator

1. Measure the outdoor area you will treat near activity.
2. Split the work into zones like sheds and compost sites.
3. Select infestation level based on sightings and droppings.
4. Choose a bait form that matches your product label.
5. Set a refresh interval that fits weather and irrigation.
6. Press Calculate and place points on travel routes.
7. Check after the first window and replace consumed bait.

Professional guidance

Target Area Mapping

Start by defining the treatment footprint, not the whole property. Include sheds, compost bays, planter edges, paver seams, and irrigation controllers where harborage is common. Measure each zone, then sum areas for the calculator. Dividing work into zones prevents over-application and makes follow-up inspections faster. For mixed surfaces, prioritize sheltered linear edges because cockroaches travel along boundaries.

Station Density and Coverage

The calculator converts your area to square feet and applies a coverage value per bait point. Gel points assume tighter coverage than stations because placement is more flexible. A severity multiplier increases density as sightings rise from low to severe. A humidity multiplier slightly increases density in irrigated gardens where food and moisture persist longer. The suggested spacing is derived from point density and should be adjusted to real cracks and runways.

Moisture and Seasonal Pressure

Outdoor activity often spikes during warm, humid periods and after watering cycles. If your environment is humid, place more points near drains, hose bibs, and mulched beds that stay damp. In dry seasons, focus on shaded structures and compost where microclimates remain stable. Reducing standing water and organic debris lowers pressure and makes baiting more effective with fewer placements.

Refresh Planning and Monitoring

Bait works best when it stays attractive and available. Use the refresh interval to plan replacements after rain, irrigation splash, or heavy feeding. The calculator also recommends a first check at about half the interval to catch washout early. Monitor consumption, droppings, and sightings, and keep density higher for the initial program window, then transition to targeted maintenance once activity declines.

Recordkeeping and Risk Controls

Consistent records improve safety and outcomes. Export CSV or PDF results to document placement counts, product type, and dates for each zone. Keep baits secured, away from children, pets, and edible crops, and follow label directions for outdoor use. Avoid spraying repellents near bait points. If severe activity persists beyond several refresh cycles, escalate to professional inspection and exclusion repairs.

FAQs

1) How many bait points should I place outdoors?

Use area, infestation level, and zone count to estimate density. Place points on sheltered travel routes, then adjust after the first check based on consumption and sightings.

2) Should I choose gel, granular bait, or stations?

Gel offers precise placement in cracks and protected edges. Granular bait can cover broader exterior perimeters when labels allow. Stations simplify handling and help protect bait from moisture.

3) What does the spacing number mean?

Spacing is a rough grid estimate from point density. Real placement should follow edges, voids, and hiding areas, so spacing may vary within each zone.

4) How often should I refresh bait?

Refresh sooner after rain, irrigation splash, or heavy feeding. Start with a mid-interval check to catch washed-out or depleted points, then extend intervals as activity drops.

5) Can I spray insecticide near bait points?

Avoid repellents near bait, because they can reduce feeding and slow control. If a label requires spray, keep it away from bait locations and maintain clear, sheltered bait points.

6) Is this safe around edible crops and pets?

Follow the product label and secure baits where children and pets cannot access them. Keep bait away from edible plant parts and harvest areas, and use tamper-resistant stations when needed.