Madagascar hissing cockroaches (MHC) are amazing insects that can be an integral part of an effective science learning and teaching environment. MHCs have a fascinating social structure. They make excellent pets, teach students how to properly care for animals, and their large size adds to their "wow" factor. These characteristics make them unique as classroom insects and add to their effectiveness in increasing your students' scientific knowledge. This article provides directions for building a free, eco-friendly, low-maintenance MHC home out of garbage. (Contains 9 figures.)