Found this small, hard, brown pill-shaped object behind my kitchen cabinet. It has a weird ridge on the side and looks like a dried bean. What is this?

What To Do If It’s a Cockroach Egg Case

1. Remove It Carefully

Use gloves or paper towels to pick it up and seal it in a plastic bag before disposal.

2. Inspect the Area

Check for additional signs of roaches, including:

• Droppings resembling black pepper or coffee grounds
• Musty odors
• Shed skins
• Live insects at night

3. Deep Clean Nearby Areas

Clean crumbs, spills, and grease buildup around cabinets and appliances.

4. Seal Entry Points

Close cracks and gaps around pipes, walls, and baseboards.

5. Consider Pest Control

If you find multiple egg cases or signs of infestation, contacting a professional exterminator may help prevent the problem from worsening.

Can Egg Cases Still Hatch?

Yes — in some species, egg cases can remain viable even after being detached from the female. That’s why prompt removal is important.

A single cockroach egg case may contain dozens of baby roaches depending on the species.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the chance of cockroaches in your kitchen:

• Store food in sealed containers
• Take out trash regularly
• Fix water leaks promptly
• Vacuum behind appliances
• Avoid leaving pet food out overnight

Keeping moisture and food sources limited is one of the best defenses against household pests.