Silverfish are small, wingless insects that have a silver color and a fish-like movement. They are harmless to humans, but they can be a nuisance in your home as they feed on starchy materials, such as books, paper, glue, fabrics, and furniture. They also thrive in moist and dark areas, such as basements, bathrooms, and closets. If you want to get rid of silverfish and prevent them from coming back, here are some tips and tricks you can try.
Trapping Silverfish
One of the easiest ways to get rid of silverfish is to trap them using simple household items. Here are some examples of traps you can make:
- Glass jar trap. Wrap the outside of a tall glass jar with masking tape and put some bread or flour inside as bait. Place the jar near the areas where you see silverfish activity. The silverfish will climb up the tape and fall into the jar, but they won’t be able to escape because of the smooth glass surface.
- Newspaper trap. Roll up a wet newspaper and secure it with rubber bands. Leave it overnight in a spot where silverfish are likely to hide. In the morning, dispose of the newspaper without unrolling it, as it may contain silverfish and their eggs.
- Sticky trap. Cut a piece of cardboard and cover it with duct tape, sticky side up. Put some bread or flour in the center as bait. Stick the trap on the floor along the walls or corners where silverfish roam. The silverfish will get stuck on the tape when they try to reach the bait.
Applying Repellents and Insecticides
Another way to get rid of silverfish is to use natural or chemical repellents and insecticides. These products can deter or kill silverfish, but be careful when using them, especially if you have pets or children in your home. Here are some examples of repellents and insecticides you can use:
- Cedar or cedar oil. Silverfish hate the smell of cedar, so you can use cedar wood, shavings, or oil to repel them. You can place cedar blocks or sachets in your drawers, closets, or bookshelves, or spray cedar oil mixed with water around your home.
- Bay leaves. Another natural repellent for silverfish is bay leaves, which have a strong aroma that silverfish dislike. You can scatter dried bay leaves in your cabinets, pantry, or storage boxes, or make a spray with bay leaves and water.
- Diatomaceous earth. This is a fine powder made from fossilized algae that can dehydrate and kill silverfish. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth in the cracks, crevices, and gaps where silverfish hide, but make sure to wear a mask and gloves when handling it, as it can irritate your skin and lungs.
- Boric acid. This is a chemical compound that can poison and kill silverfish. You can dust boric acid in the areas where silverfish frequent, but be careful not to inhale it or let it touch your eyes or skin, as it can be toxic to humans and animals.
- Pyrethroid insecticides. These are synthetic chemicals that can paralyze and kill silverfish. You can spray pyrethroid insecticides in the places where silverfish are found, but follow the instructions and precautions on the label, as they can be harmful to your health and the environment.
Preventing Silverfish
The best way to get rid of silverfish is to prevent them from infesting your home in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Reduce moisture. Silverfish love humid environments, so you should keep your home dry and well-ventilated. You can use a dehumidifier, a fan, or an air conditioner to lower the humidity level, and fix any leaks or drips in your plumbing or roof. You should also avoid leaving wet clothes, towels, or dishes around your home, and wipe any spills or condensation as soon as possible.
- Eliminate food sources. Silverfish feed on starchy and sugary materials, so you should store your food, books, paper, and fabrics in airtight containers or bags. You should also vacuum and clean your home regularly, and dispose of any clutter or trash that may attract silverfish.
- Seal entry points. Silverfish can enter your home through cracks, holes, or gaps in your walls, floors, doors, or windows. You should seal these openings with caulk, foam, or mesh, and install weather stripping or screens to keep silverfish out.
Silverfish are not dangerous, but they can be annoying and destructive. By following these tips and tricks, you can get rid of silverfish and keep your home silverfish-free.