Silverfish at home: What attracts them and how to keep them away

Wipe down surfaces, including counters, shelves, and under furniture, to eliminate starches and sugars that attract silverfish.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Silverfish can enter your home through small cracks, gaps, or holes. Seal any potential entry points by:

• Caulking cracks in walls and baseboards.
• Sealing gaps around doors, windows, and pipes using weather stripping or caulk.
• Repairing holes in screens and around window edges.

4. Store Food Properly

Silverfish are attracted to food scraps, so it’s important to store food properly:

• Seal food items tightly in airtight containers, especially dry goods like flour, cereal, and pasta.
• Clean up food crumbs immediately, particularly in the kitchen and dining areas.

5. Use Natural Repellents

There are several natural remedies that can help repel silverfish without using harsh chemicals:

• Cedarwood: Silverfish dislike the scent of cedar. Consider using cedarwood chips or cedar oil in places where silverfish are likely to appear.
• Lavender: Silverfish are repelled by the strong scent of lavender. You can place dried lavender sachets in your closets and drawers, or use lavender essential oil in a diffuser.
• Citrus: Silverfish also dislike the scent of citrus. Rubbing a citrus peel along baseboards or using citrus essential oils in a spray can help deter these pests.

6. Use Traps or Baits

To catch and eliminate silverfish, consider using traps or baits. Commercial silverfish traps are widely available and work by attracting the insects with sticky surfaces. Alternatively, you can make your own traps by:

• Using a jar or container with a piece of tape around the edge. Place a piece of food (like a cracker) inside. The silverfish will be attracted to the food but will find it difficult to escape the jar.
• Baiting with diatomaceous earth: This powder is harmless to humans and pets but lethal to silverfish. Sprinkle a light layer in areas where silverfish are common.

When to Call a Professional

If your silverfish infestation becomes overwhelming despite your best efforts, it might be time to call in a pest control professional. A pest control expert can assess the situation, use stronger treatments, and help you develop a long-term strategy to keep your home silverfish-free.

Conclusion

Silverfish might be small, but they can cause big problems in your home if left unchecked. By understanding what attracts these pests and taking the necessary steps to control humidity, seal cracks, and eliminate their food sources, you can effectively keep silverfish away. Remember, regular cleaning and using natural repellents can go a long way in preventing an infestation. With these proactive measures, you can enjoy a silverfish-free home for years to come!