If you’ve ever spotted a cockroach skittering across your bathroom floor, you’re not alone. Bathrooms are one of the most common places these pests sneak into, thanks to the warm, humid environment created by showers and constant plumbing activity. And even if you’re diligent about cleaning, cockroaches can still find their way inside — often right through the shower drain.
It’s an unsettling thought, but there is a surprisingly simple way to block their entry point, and it involves something you probably already have at home: a basic party balloon.
Most people don’t realize cockroaches can travel through plumbing lines, squeezing through small cracks or openings in pipes. Shower drains, which stay damp even when not in use, are especially inviting to them. That’s where the balloon trick comes in — a low‑cost, DIY method that helps tighten the barrier between your bathroom and whatever’s lurking below.
Here’s how it works:
Remove the shower drain cover and take a standard balloon. Snip off both ends so you’re left with a stretchy tube. Slide this tube tightly around the edges of the drain cover. When the cover is placed back onto the drain, the balloon creates a snug seal that’s difficult for pests to push past — but still flexible enough to let water flow through normally.
Homeowners who’ve tried the trick say it noticeably cuts down on the number of unwanted visitors crawling up from the pipes. And while it’s not a complete solution on its own, it’s a clever starting point for keeping bugs at bay.
For the best results, pair the balloon method with regular bathroom upkeep. Wipe down wet surfaces, clean out the drain periodically, and try to keep humidity levels low. It also helps to inspect the area around your shower and sink for cracks or gaps where plumbing enters the wall. Sealing these spaces can make a big difference.
When combined, these steps help create a bathroom environment that’s less appealing — and less accessible — to cockroaches. A simple balloon might not look like much, but in this case, it can make all the difference.