While they don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases, these nocturnal creatures can damage books, clothing, and food packages while leaving behind yellowish stains and scales. According to WebMD, silverfish mostly feed on carbohydrates and protein, including flour, rolled oats, dried meat, paper, cardboard, books, vegetables, cereals, and even glue.
Silverfish populations often surge as temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, making summer the perfect time to address an infestation before it gets out of hand. Fortunately, with some targeted strategies and preventive measures, you can effectively reclaim your home.
Here are four ways to get rid of silverfish at your home this summer
Chemical solutions
- Commercial insecticides: According to Medical News Today, sprays containing synergised pyrethrin, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, tetramethrin, or phenothrin can effectively combat silverfish infestations
- Chlorfenapyr baits: Research cited by Medical News Today found that commercial bait formulations containing 0.05% or 0.20% chlorfenapyr were most effective at killing silverfish.
- Silverfish poison: Healthline suggests using small bits of silverfish poison, though they caution against this method if you have children or pets who might be able to access the poison.
Natural methods
- Glass jar trap: Create a trap by putting starchy food in a glass container and wrapping the outside with tape. Silverfish can climb up the textured tape to enter but can’t escape the smooth glass interior.
- Sticky traps: Both sources recommend using sticky traps, which can catch silverfish when they crawl across them.
- Fill cracks: Keep silverfish from reproducing by sealing any gaps in your home’s walls, floors, and baseboards. According to WebMD, these pests prefer to deposit their eggs in hidden crevices, so eliminating these entry points not only prevents adults from finding suitable nesting sites but also stops newly hatched silverfish from emerging into your living spaces.
- Seal your food and vacuum regularly: Keep food in one area of the house only with proper seal on all the items. Maintain a regular cleaning routine by thoroughly vacuuming all carpeted areas, bare floors, and upholstered furniture, ensuring you eliminate crumbs and food particles that might attract silverfish.
- Cedar products: According to Healthline, cedar or cedar oil (used in a diffuser or spray bottle with water) repels silverfish due to the strong-smelling pheromones. Medical News Today also lists cedar shavings and cedar oil with water as anecdotally effective repellents.
- Bay leaves: Spreading dried bay leaves throughout your home can repel silverfish and other insects due to their natural oils.
- Other natural repellents: Medical News Today mentions cinnamon and cloves as additional natural ingredients that may repel silverfish.
Environmental control
- Reduce humidity: Using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels can make your home less habitable for silverfish.
- Eliminate hiding places: Clearing out dark spaces where silverfish shelter will reduce their habitat options.
Professional help
For persistent or large infestations, it is recommended that you contact a licensed pest control professional who can recommend appropriate treatment when DIY methods prove ineffective.
