Silverfish come from outside or from neighboring infested areas. They tend to move in through cracks in walls, windows, or even when bringing in infested items like old books, clothing, or cardboard. Because they’re nocturnal and elusive, they can spread unnoticed for a while.
Damage They Cause: Silverfish can cause a fair amount of destruction, especially to things like:
- Books, paper, and wallpaper: They’ll munch on glue, paper, and starches, leaving behind irregular holes or frayed edges.
- Clothing and fabric: They can damage fabric, particularly if it’s made from natural fibers like cotton or linen.
- Food: They’ll often sneak into dry food packages, contaminating them with their droppings.
Getting Rid of Them:
- Reduce humidity: Silverfish love damp environments, so lowering humidity can make your home less appealing to them. Consider using a dehumidifier or improving ventilation.
- Seal cracks: Check for gaps around windows, doors, or baseboards, and seal them up to prevent silverfish from getting inside.
- Remove food sources: Make sure food (especially starchy or sugary foods) is stored in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs or spills promptly.
- Declutter: Silverfish hide in dark, cluttered areas, so organizing basements, attics, and closets can discourage them.
- Traps and insecticides: You can use traps to catch silverfish or insecticides that target them, though they typically don’t fully resolve an infestation.
- Professional pest control: If you have a larger infestation, it might be best to call in the pros, Go Green Pest Control. We can assess the situation and provide more long-term solutions like targeted treatments or pest-proofing your home.
If you’ve noticed any signs of silverfish, like droppings or damage to items, it’s best to act fast to avoid a full-on invasion. Have you noticed any silverfish around your home?