Silverfish, scientifically known as Lepisma saccharina, are household pests that can cause damage to household items. They are called silverfish due to their silver colour and the way their bodies move back and forth, side-to-side, like fish when they move.
Silverfish like to reside in homes because of the plenty of food sources available, such as polysaccharides found in numerous household objects like book glue, carpet fibers, household glue, paint, fabrics, and furniture. Moisture is also a crucial factor for silverfish to thrive, and they lay their eggs, which look like white and yellow bulbs, in dark, moist, hidden areas of your home. Silverfish can live up to 8 years and reproduce frequently throughout their lives, making them a nuisance.
How to get rid of silverfish
To get rid of silverfish, various tactics can be employed, depending on where they are found.
- In the bathroom cabinets, dehydrate the area and eliminate all clutter, and sprinkle diatomaceous earth in the corners of the room.
- In the bedroom, remove all bedding and wash it in hot water, and contact a professional pest control service if the infestation is severe.
- In the attic and basement, boric acid is an excellent pest removal option, and the same tactic applies to your closet.
- For the outside of your home or in windows, store-bought insect repellent is effective. To control silverfish, seal up food, reduce humidity, clear clutter, and sprinkle diatomaceous earth.
By following these steps, silverfish infestations can be effectively managed, and households can stay silverfish-free.
If however you have a silverfish or other unidentified pest lurking in your home, it is best to call professionals to identify the pest and administer the best pest control solution.
Call Service Master to identify which pest has been bugging you and to sort out your pest problems for good!
