Silverfish are a type of pest with silvery, metallic scales. They live in damp and cool spaces in your homes and can hide in tiny crevices. Known for their speed, silverfish are capable of surviving for several months without consuming food. This resilience makes it important to eliminate them before they establish a permanent presence. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get rid of silverfish from your home.
What are silverfish?
The scientific name of silverfish is Lepisma saccharina. Despite their name, silverfish are not fish but insects. They don’t have wings, but their soft, silvery bodies give them a fish-like appearance. Silverfish are small, wingless, silvery-colored insects that are commonly found in homes. They are about ½–¾ inches long, not including their tail.
Why silverfish pose a problem
Silverfish aren’t directly harmful to humans. They won’t hurt humans directly by making us sick or bite us but they can eat our food. These chewing insects feed on materials containing starches or sugars, including books, clothing, and food. They also leave behind droppings that can stain surfaces and contaminate food.
Signs of a silverfish infestation
- Yellow stains: Yellow stains are one of the major signs of silverfish infestation. If you spot yellow stains on your bedding, clothing, or other surfaces, it’s time to take action. Silverfish urine will tend to stain yellow.
- Silverfish damage: Silverfish love to eat carbohydrates including starch and sugar substances. Unfortunately, most of our kitchen items are the same which the silverfish eat.
- Feces: Silverfish droppings are small, spherical, and dark, resembling peppercorns. Spotting these is a clear sign of an infestation.
How to get rid of silverfish
If you spot a silverfish in your home, don’t panic. Follow these easy steps to eliminate silverfish and safeguard your home from these fast-moving pests.
1. Reduce humidity
Silverfish thrive in humid environments, preferring conditions with a humidity level of 75–95%. To reduce humidity:
- Use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements.
- Run exhaust fans in bathrooms to ventilate moisture.
- Repair plumbing leaks to cut off water sources.
- Use air conditioning or fans in rooms where books or other paper items are stored.
2. Eliminate food sources
We can eliminate food sources by keeping food sealed. We should store food in airtight containers or jars. Vacuuming regularly is also very important for removal of silverfish. Vacuuming helps to keep our home clean and organized.
3. Use natural repellents
Silverfish dislike certain natural substances:
- Boric acid: Sprinkle boric acid powder in affected areas. It’s a natural deterrent that eliminates silverfish and their eggs.
- Bay leaves and cloves: Place these in areas where silverfish are present; the scent will drive them away.
- Citrus smells: Silverfish hate the smell of citrus. Spray lemon juice in problem areas or use citrus-scented cleaners to repel them.
4. Set traps
- Glue trap: Glue traps are a very good option for kitchens because they are non-poisonous.
- Use a glass jar: Fill a jar with starchy food like flour, dried cereal, or dog food, then tape the outside of the jar. Silverfish can enter, but they won’t be able to escape.
5. Seal entry points
Sealing entry points is an effective way to get rid of silverfish. Silverfish can find their way into our homes through tiny gaps and fissures. We should use caulk to seal cracks in our wall or basements. We should also close tiny holes with the help of any material to prevent silverfish. If we block the entry points of the silverfish, this makes it challenging for silverfish to survive in our home
Conclusion
Silverfish may be small, but they can cause many problems in our home. By reducing humidity, eliminating food sources, and using natural repellents, you can get rid of silverfish and prevent infestations. By following these steps, you can maintain a clean, pest-free home. Eliminating silverfish can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Reducing humidity, removing food sources, and sealing access points can help control silverfish.
