You\u2019re brushing your teeth, you\u2019re half-awake, and then something darty and creepy creeps across your bathroom floor as if it owns it. Gross. Been there. If you see these little guys often, you may have a silverfish problem. Yep \u2014 those shiny, squirmy bugs that kind of look like a fish mixed with a bug (because that\u2019s what they are).<\/p>\n
So what does it mean when you see silverfish in the home, how do you identify them, why are they moving in, and most importantly, how do you get them out for good?<\/p>\n
So What Are Silverfish Exactly?<\/p>\n
Silverfish are tiny wingless insects that have existed for millions of years. Literally. These are prehistoric bugs. They\u2019re about 1\u00bd inches long (sometimes a little smaller or larger), flat, carrot-shaped at the end, with silvery scales on both sides. They have long antennae and move in this creepy, wiggly, snake-like motion. If you have ever seen one, you understand what I mean.<\/p>\n
And no, they neither fly nor bite. But they aren\u2019t harmless either.<\/p>\n
In case you see silverfish in your house \u2014 in the bathroom, basement, kitchen, or laundry room \u2014 it means your house is providing them with everything they need. Silverfish live in:<\/p>\n
High humidity: They love damp environments.
\nDarkness: You will not find them sunbathing.
\nAccess to starchy\/sugary material: Paper, glue, cardboard, fabric, and crumbs.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s right. These bugs love carbs. They\u2019ll eat wallpaper glue, the bindings of your favorite book, old newspapers, and dandruff (yes, really).<\/p>\n
Are Silverfish Harmful?<\/p>\n
They don\u2019t sting. They carry no diseases. And do not let their passiveness fool you.<\/p>\n
Left unattended, silverfish can do serious damage. But what they might chase is this:<\/p>\n
Books & paper \u2013 They\u2019ll eat all the glue and pages.
\nClothing & linens \u2013 Especially if they are kept for long.
\nWallpaper \u2013 They chase the glue!
\nFood \u2013 Specifically pantry items like flour, oats, and cereal.<\/p>\n
Worst of all, silverfish are very fast breeders. One or two could be a nightmare within a few months. So yes \u2014 they have to go.<\/p>\n
How You Know You Have a Silverfish Problem<\/p>\n
Other than the obvious \u2014 seeing one wiggle across your floor \u2014 silverfish signs may include:<\/p>\n
Yellow stains or little holes on paper or fabric.
\nShedded skin \u2013 Silverfish molt and leave a little shell behind.
\nDroppings \u2013 Little black, peppery drops in dark corners.
\nWallpaper damage \u2013 Often along seams and corners.
\nIf any of these signs appear in a damp area in your home \u2014 you have silverfish.<\/p>\n
Getting Rid of Silverfish in Your Home<\/p>\n
So what now? You\u2019ve identified them and are packing them up. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n
1. Dry the Environment
\nSilverfish cannot live in dry conditions. A dehumidifier is a good idea \u2014 particularly in basements and bathrooms. Air must circulate. Ventilation is key.<\/p>\n
2. Eliminate Their Food Sources
\nClear out stacks of old paper, cardboard boxes, and books kept in damp places. Store pantry items in airtight containers. Vacuum frequently \u2014 yes, even those weird corners under the furniture.<\/p>\n
3. Seal the Cracks
\nThese bugs love to hide. Caulk cracks, crevices, and gaps at baseboards, alongside pipes and walls. You make your home less of a bug-friendly hideaway.<\/p>\n
4. Use Natural Repellents
\nSprinkle diatomaceous earth in problem areas. It is a fine, natural powder that slices through their exoskeletons (brutal, but effective). You can also use boric acid powder \u2014 just keep it away from kids and pets.<\/p>\n
Lavender, citrus, and cedarwood can repel them. Not foolproof, but it makes your home smell better while you try.<\/p>\n
5. Trap Them
\nUsing a jar wrapped in masking tape so they can climb inside and placing a piece of bread inside will catch them. They\u2019ll get in, but they won\u2019t get out.<\/p>\n
6. Call the Pros
\nWhen you see multiple silverfish often, especially during the day (they are nocturnal), call the pros for pest control. They\u2019ll determine the infestation level and treat it thoroughly.<\/p>\n
Prevent Silverfish From Returning<\/p>\n
When you kick them out keep them out.<\/p>\n
In closets and under sinks use dry absorbers such as DampRid.
\nPaper products & clothing are to stay in plastic bags.
\nDon\u2019t pile up clothes, cardboard or food crumbs.
\nKeep your home dry, clean & free of clutter.<\/p>\n
So basically if it\u2019s dry and boring then silverfish will leave.<\/p>\n
Finding silverfish in your home is gross, but not uncommon. These little survivors are drawn to moisture and carbs! And they\u2019re not dangerous in a bite-you kind of way, but they are a nuisance that you do not want settling in.<\/p>\n
The good news? You\u2019ve got this. Identify them scrub them up, dry the space and do some preventative measures. With a little diligence, you can keep your home silverfish-free. Believe me\u2026 I\u2019ve been there\u2026 I know what I am saying.<\/p>\n
Prevent Silverfish From Returning<\/p>\n
When you kick them out keep them out.<\/p>\n
In closets and under sinks use dry absorbers such as DampRid.
\nPaper products & clothing are to stay in plastic bags.
\nDon\u2019t pile up clothes, cardboard or food crumbs.
\nKeep your home dry, clean & free of clutter.<\/p>\n
So basically if it\u2019s dry and boring then silverfish will leave.<\/p>\n
Finding silverfish in your home is gross, but not uncommon. These little survivors are drawn to moisture and carbs! And they\u2019re not dangerous in a bite-you kind of way, but they are a nuisance that you do not want settling in.<\/p>\n
The good news? You\u2019ve got this. Identify them scrub them up, dry the space and do some preventative measures. With a little diligence, you can keep your home silverfish-free. Believe me\u2026 I\u2019ve been there\u2026 I know what I am saying.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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