You open a cupboard, pull out an old box, and something small, silver, and very fast disappears into the shadows. If that sounds familiar, there’s a good chance you’ve got silverfish, and unfortunately they’re one of the more persistent household pests (not dangerous, but quietly destructive) and most people only discover them once they’ve already settled in.
Here’s what you need to know to deal with them properly.
What Attracts Silverfish in the First Place
Silverfish thrive in damp, undisturbed spaces such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, under sink cabinets and humid storage areas are their preferred haunts. They feed on starchy and protein rich materials including everything from paper glue, cardboard and wallpaper paste to fabric and even food crumbs! What this means is a cluttered spare room or damp garage is essentially an open invitation to these critters.
They’re also nocturnal, which is why most people rarely see them until an infestation is well established, and once inside, they can live for up to three years and survive long periods without food, making them genuinely difficult to shift once they’ve moved in.
How to Tell If You Have Them
Look for small, irregular holes or scrape marks on books, wallpaper or stored fabrics. Silverfish also leave behind yellowish stains, tiny pepper like droppings and shed skin which are usually found in dark corners or near old cardboard boxes.
If you want to confirm their presence, try this: dampen a newspaper, roll it up, and leave it in a suspected area overnight. Check it in the morning, and if silverfish have crawled inside seeking moisture, you’ve got your answer.
What Are Some Practical Ways to Get Rid of Them?
Diatomaceous earth is one of the most effective DIY treatments available. It’s a fine, non-toxic powder that dehydrates insects on contact. Sprinkle it under sinks, along skirting boards and in any areas where you’ve noticed activity.
Cedar oil and citrus-based sprays also work well as natural repellents. Mix a few drops with water and apply to cracks, crevices and other such damp prone spots around the home. Dried bay leaves or cinnamon sticks placed in cupboards can help deter them too.
The rolled newspaper method mentioned above also doubles as a trap, be sure to repeat it nightly for a week and you can reduce numbers significantly before moving on to more permanent measures.
Keeping Them Out for Good
Moisture control is the single most important factor in preventing a return. Fix leaking taps, insulate cold water pipes to reduce condensation, and use a dehumidifier in rooms that tend to stay damp. Good airflow in bathrooms and kitchens makes a real difference.
Store pantry staples such as flour, cereal and pet food in sealed containers to cut off food sources. Regular vacuuming and decluttering removes the organic debris they feed on. Don’t forget storage areas like attics and garages as these are exactly the kind of forgotten, undisturbed spaces silverfish prefer.
A quick check every few months, particularly heading into warmer and more humid weather, will help you catch any signs of reinfestation early.
When DIY Isn’t Enough for Silverfish Pest Infestation
If silverfish keep coming back despite your efforts, they’ve likely established themselves somewhere your treatments can’t reach which can include wall cavities, roof voids or under the flooring! That’s precisely when professional intervention makes sense.
A licensed pest technician can identify the source of the infestation, address the environmental conditions driving it, and apply targeted treatments safely and effectively. They can also flag any underlying issues (like hidden plumbing leaks or damp building materials) that may be making your property vulnerable and attractive to these pests. Whether you need a one-off treatment or ongoing protection, getting expert advice is often the most efficient and cost effective solution in the long run.