You’re brushing your teeth, half-asleep, when suddenly something small and creepy darts across your bathroom floor like it owns the place. Gross, right? If you notice these little creatures frequently, you might have a silverfish problem. Those shiny, wriggly bugs that kind of look like a mix between a fish and an insect—because that’s exactly what they are.
So what does it mean if silverfish are in your home? How can you identify them, why do they appear, and most importantly, how do you get rid of them for good?
What Are Silverfish?
Silverfish are tiny, wingless insects that have been around for millions of years—literally prehistoric creatures. They measure about 1½ inches long (sometimes slightly smaller or larger), are flat with a carrot-like shape at the tail, and are covered in silvery scales. They have long antennae and move in a creepy, wiggly, snake-like manner. If you’ve ever seen one, you know exactly what I mean.
They don’t fly or bite, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
Why Are Silverfish in Your Home?
If you spot silverfish in places like the bathroom, basement, kitchen, or laundry room, it usually means your home is providing everything they need to thrive. Silverfish are attracted to:
High humidity – they love damp, moist areas.
Darkness – you won’t find them basking in the sun.
Access to starchy or sugary materials – things like paper, glue, cardboard, fabric, and crumbs.
Yep, these little critters love carbs. They’ll chew on wallpaper glue, the bindings of your favorite books, old newspapers, and even dandruff.
Are Silverfish Harmful?
Silverfish don’t sting or spread diseases, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Left unchecked, they can cause significant damage. They’ll target:
Books & paper – chewing through pages and glue.
Clothing & linens – especially items stored long-term.
Wallpaper – they love the glue.
Food – pantry items like flour, oats, and cereal.
Even worse, silverfish reproduce quickly. One or two can become a major problem in just a few months. That’s why action is necessary.
Signs of a Silverfish Problem
Aside from seeing one crawl across the floor, other indicators include:
Yellow stains or small holes in paper or fabric.
Shed skin from molting.
Tiny black droppings in dark corners.
Wallpaper damage, often along seams or edges.
If you notice any of these signs in a damp area of your home, you likely have silverfish.
How to Get Rid of Silverfish
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Dry Out the Area
Silverfish cannot survive in dry conditions. Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms like basements and bathrooms. Make sure air circulates—ventilation is key.
Remove Their Food Sources
Declutter stacks of old papers, books, or cardboard. Store pantry items in airtight containers and vacuum regularly, including hard-to-reach corners.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Silverfish love hiding in small gaps. Use caulk to seal cracks along baseboards, pipes, and walls to reduce hiding spots.
Use Natural Repellents
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in problem areas—it’s a fine powder that damages their exoskeletons. Boric acid is another option (keep away from pets and children). Lavender, cedarwood, or citrus can also repel them while adding a nice scent to your home.
Trap Them
A simple trap involves a jar wrapped in tape (so they can climb in) with a piece of bread inside. They enter but cannot escape.
Call Professionals
If you see multiple silverfish often, especially during the day, professional pest control may be necessary. Experts can assess and treat the infestation effectively.
Prevent Silverfish From Returning
Once you’ve removed them, keep them out:
Use moisture absorbers like DampRid in closets and under sinks.
Store paper products and clothing in plastic bags.
Avoid piling up clothes, cardboard, or food crumbs.
Keep your home dry, clean, and clutter-free.
In short, dry and boring environments are unattractive to silverfish.
Final Thoughts
Finding silverfish in your home is unpleasant but not unusual. These resilient creatures are drawn to moisture and carbohydrates. While they don’t bite or spread disease, they’re a nuisance and can cause damage.
The good news? With careful cleaning, drying, and preventative measures, you can keep your home silverfish-free. Stay vigilant, and you’ll win this battle. Trust me—I’ve been there.