Brace yourselves as cockroach season descends, bringing higher risks of home invasions by these notorious pests across the nation. Known carriers of diseases, culprits of allergic reactions, food contaminants and possible property damage, cockroaches are unwelcome visitors that can also be costly intruders.

Indeed, eradicating an infestation might lighten your wallet by as much as £300. That's according to Chris Hutton, storage pro at Adams Self Store, who has a budget-friendly, natural deterrent to keep these critters at bay and advice on identifying and tackling an infestation should one arise.

For just £2.50, you can ward off these pests with the lavender tactic. Chris advises: "The smell of lavender interferes with cockroaches' sensory system, disrupting their ability to navigate. Since they rely heavily on their sense of smell to find food and shelter, spraying lavender oil in areas where they frequent will deter them."

The potent aroma overpowers the cockroaches, prompting them to find other quarters.

Simply blend 10-15 drops of lavender oil with a cup of water and spritz it in likely cockroach hangouts such as kitchens, bathrooms, and shadowy nooks. Not only will it help safeguard your abode from roaches, but it will also imbue it with a pleasant fragrance, all while sparing you the hefty expense of chemical pesticides - with the entire bottle setting you back a mere £2.50, this method proves both cost-efficient and efficacious.

Keep an eye out for droppings

Keep an eye out for tiny black or brown specks that resemble pepper or coffee grounds, particularly under appliances, along walls, or near food sources. These are common areas where cockroaches tend to congregate.

Musty odour

If there's a persistent unpleasant odour in your home, don't be too quick to point fingers at your partner - it could actually indicate a cockroach infestation. This musty smell is a result of the pheromones released by these pests.

Sightings

Spotting a cockroach during daylight hours is a major warning sign. Given that cockroaches are nocturnal creatures, seeing one during the day suggests a larger population hiding away.

Other indicators include shed skin, body parts, dirt tracks, and damage to food or packaging. If you come across any of these signs, try this natural remedy before reaching out to pest control.

Other tips for preventing an infestation

Maintain cleanliness - Ensure your kitchen is kept clean, store food in sealed containers, and minimise food waste. Cockroaches are constantly on the lookout for food and shelter, so leaving food out can turn your home into a perfect breeding ground for them.

Seal entry points - Cockroaches can infiltrate your home through gaps and openings. Check under doors and around windows for potential entry points and seal them with caulk to keep the pests out.

Fix water leaks - Cockroaches thrive in damp conditions, so promptly fixing any water leaks can help prevent a cockroach invasion in your home.