How to keep your home free of silverfish.

Silverfish can survive in most climates, but they are big fans of humidity. That is why the gray-blue crawling creatures are often found in damp, dark places like bathrooms, basements, kitchen cupboards, and attics. Other common hangouts are garages, storage boxes, and sheds. Although they are nocturnal, they can sometimes be spotted during the day in bathrooms or near sinks and drains. Silverfish tend to feed on paper, cardboard, dead skin cells, damp clothing, and other starchy materials. Even when they are not visible, you can sometimes see where they have been, as they frequently leave behind traces of excrement that look like a peppery sprinkling. You may also find the skins they have shed in the areas they inhabit.

Prevention

The best way to prevent silverfish from taking up residence in your home is to deal with any moisture issues you may have. Here are some tips:

Install a fan in your bathroom shower
Fill in cracks or fissures where they might enter. Use caulk along baseboards as well as in cracks and holes
Use a dehumidifier in damp places like basements to reduce moisture in the air
Make sure the area around the exterior foundation of your home is clear of leaves and other debris
Fix moisture issues such as standing water, leaky plumbing, or places where condensation forms
Remove stacks of newspapers and books from floors

Fighting a silverfish infestation

Spray insecticide around the outside foundation of your home
Use homemade or store-bought traps indoors near infested areas
Silverfish dislike the smell of strong spices like cinnamon and cloves. Make up little packets and place them in storage areas and cabinets.
Silverfish also dislike the smell of cedar shavings. Sprinkle them along foundations or other outside areas that tend to get damp or wet.
Spray diluted lavender or citrus oil along baseboards, in drawers, or in closets to keep silverfish away
Replace old wallpaper
Vacuum often, and use the vacuum hose regularly along areas where silverfish can hide or lay eggs

For further assistance in protecting yourself from pests, call Green Pest Solutions at 855-312-7157. Not just a pest control company, we act as a support system, there to help make sure you’re able to spend more time free of infestations. Call us today for more tips and tricks on pests at bay—the safe way.