10 Things That Draw Roaches to the Bathroom

Most people worry about roaches in the kitchen, but the bathroom is another place they love—and once they settle in, they’re tough to get rid of. Roaches aren’t just looking for food. They’re after moisture, warmth, and shelter. Here’s what might be pulling them into your bathroom without you realizing it.

1. Leaky Faucets or Pipes

Roaches don’t need much water to survive, so even a slow drip from the sink or tub is enough to keep them happy. They’ll hang out under the vanity or behind the toilet and come out when the lights go off.

Fixing small leaks can go a long way in cutting off their water source. Check for damp wood, moldy smells, or water spots around pipes—those are roach magnets.

2. Damp Towels on the Floor

If you’re in the habit of tossing used towels on the floor or letting them stay damp for hours, you’re creating a perfect hangout spot for roaches. They’re drawn to warmth and moisture.

Hang towels up to dry and wash them regularly. It keeps your bathroom fresher and makes it less attractive to bugs.

3. Hair and Gunk in the Drain

You wouldn’t think hair and soap scum would attract roaches, but they’ll feed on just about anything. That buildup inside your drain can give them moisture and food in one place.

Regularly clean your drains with baking soda and vinegar or a drain brush. A slow drain isn’t just annoying—it could be attracting pests.

4. Toilet Brush Holders

That gross puddle at the bottom of your toilet brush holder? Roaches love it. It’s wet, dark, and undisturbed—everything they’re looking for.

Rinse and dry your brush after each use, and give the holder a good clean weekly. Better yet, use one with ventilation or a disposable liner.

5. Toothpaste Splatter

Roaches are gross, but they’re not picky. Dried toothpaste, especially the sugary kind, can attract them to your sink and counter.

Wipe down your sink daily and keep the area around the faucet clean. It takes two seconds and cuts down on the mess they’re sniffing out.

6. Trash Cans Without Lids

Bathroom trash may not seem like a food source, but tissues, floss, and wrappers still carry scents that attract roaches—especially if anything is damp.

Use a trash can with a lid and take it out regularly. If the can smells, it’s already inviting them in.

7. Bath Mats That Stay Wet

A wet rug sitting on a tile floor creates the exact kind of environment roaches love—dark, moist, and often undisturbed for hours.

Hang it to dry after showers or wash it every few days. If it stays soggy, it’s time to swap it out.

8. Unsealed Gaps Around Pipes

Roaches don’t need a big opening to squeeze through. Gaps around pipes or baseboards give them easy access to the inside of your walls—and your bathroom.

Seal up holes and cracks with caulk or foam. If you can see daylight or feel air, they can get in.

9. Forgotten Spills or Overflows

Spilled shampoo, face wash, or baby bath water may seem harmless, but it leaves behind sticky residue and moisture that draws bugs.

Wipe up puddles and residue quickly. If your kids like to splash (or overflow the sink), double-check corners and under rugs for missed messes.

10. Dirty Toothbrush Holders

That grime in the bottom of your toothbrush cup? Roaches will drink it. It’s gross, but it happens in a lot of homes.

Rinse your toothbrush holder weekly and keep it dry between uses. Roaches love those grimy, overlooked spots.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.