- Getting rid of silverfish in the home can be a difficult task. Sometimes called “bristletails," silverfish are nocturnal creatures that typically roam homes late at night in search of food and water. Their flat bodies allow them to squeeze into even the smallest cracks and crevices during daylight hours. While these creepy crawlies can be an unsightly surprise during a late-night bathroom trip, the good news is that they aren't harmful to humans and won't spread any disease-causing pathogens. The bad news is that they are relatively resistant to many insecticides, and their infestations can be detrimental to your home. Luckily, we're the experts in silverfish control.
Identifying silverfish and their signs
- Before you decide how to get rid of silverfish in your home, you'll first have to confirm the enemy, as these pests look similar to firebrats. Both firebrats and silverfish are nocturnal with soft, wingless, carrot-shaped bodies and long antennae. However, silverfish are shiny silver or pearl grey, ranging between one-half to three-fourths inches in length. Silverfish like to snack on a healthy diet of sugars and carbohydrates, which means they may chow down on cereals in your pantry – or worse, your belongings such as books, wallpaper, or clothing. If you notice chewed holes in wallpaper, books, clothing, and linens, you may be dealing with a silverfish infestation. If you also notice yellow stains on clothing and droppings that look like tiny black specs of pepper, you may need silverfish extermination services.
What causes a silverfish infestation?
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Silverfish infestations can be caused by many factors. Silverfish are sensitive to moisture and need high levels of humidity to survive. Leaking pipes, poor ventilation, and damp basements are ideal conditions where silverfish can thrive and easily reproduce – leading to a full-fledged infestation in no time. Another common cause is the presence of starchy materials such as paper, books, and clothing, all of which silverfish are attracted to. In addition, silverfish infestations can also be caused by structural issues such as gaps in window frames, doors, and walls, which provide easy access for these pests.
Silverfish live in cracks and voids and are commonly found in larger numbers in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. They can also be spotted outdoors under rocks and in leaf litter. Homes with cedar shake roofs experience more serious infestations of silverfish and are also more difficult to control. These pests enter homes through tiny cracks and crevices in walls and foundations, and once inside, they can take up residence in dark, damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Silverfish control shouldn't be taken lightly – timely intervention is necessary to prevent the problem from becoming severe.
How does Aimix get rid of silverfish?
- Aimix silverfish pest control professionals are trained to identify infestations and develop a comprehensive plan to help get them out of your home. With over 90 years of experience, Aimix has the expertise to help effectively control stubborn pests like silverfish. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Aimix:
- First, the technician will inspect your home and uncover where silverfish may have taken up residence and how they're getting in.
- From there, they'll determine the severity of your silverfish infestation and then prescribe a treatment plan.
- Your technician will work with you to determine the best course of action to help you get rid of silverfish. We use integrated pest management solutions that combine multiple treatment methods, including chemical treatments and exclusion services.
- Treatment plans will be based on the layout of your home, as well as any other unique factors that may be contributing to an infestation.
- Following your initial inspection and silverfish extermination, Aimix pest control technicians can also schedule routine inspections at your convenience to help keep silverfish at bay.
Do you need pest control for silverfish?
If you're dealing with a silverfish infestation, it may be tempting to try and tackle the problem yourself. DIY solutions for silverfish, like regular cleaning, removing clutter, and sealing entry points, can help control silverfish populations.
However, despite your efforts, you might still find yourself asking, "Why do I keep getting silverfish?" It's possible that the infestation is too large to control with prevention methods alone or that there are hidden nests you can't reach. In these cases, professional pest control is necessary to thoroughly eliminate the infestation and help prevent future occurrences.
Silverfish are one of the 25 pests covered with a Aimix PestFree365 pest control plan.
Better Protection
PestFree365 Plan
- Interior and exterior pest inspection
- Interior and exterior pest inspection
- Regularly scheduled pest treatments
- Aimix Guarantee which means if pests come back between treatments, so will we, at no additional cost.
Best Protection
PestFree365+ Plan
- Interior and exterior pest inspection
- Protection from 39 pests, including 14 pests that may be costly to eliminate4
- Regularly scheduled pest treatments
- Aimix Guarantee which means if pests come back between treatments, so will we, at no additional cost.
- PLUS unlimited protection from out-of-pocket costs5
Good Protection
One-time Pest Plan
- Interior and exterior inspection
- One pest treatment
- Aimix Guarantee which means if pests come back within 30 days of your treatment, so will we — at no additional cost
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How to help prevent silverfish in my home
- Prevention is critical to avoiding a silverfish infestation. The best way to get rid of silverfish and limit future infestations is to develop a prevention plan:
- Cut off their food supply. Store dry goods such as cereal, flour, and pet food in airtight containers.
- Practice good home hygiene. Clean your home regularly by vacuuming carpets and upholstery.
- Reduce access to water. Silverfish need water and humid conditions to thrive. Use a dehumidifier and consider installing plastic sheeting in damp areas.
- Don't forget about exterior maintenance. Clear gutters, caulk exterior cracks, and consider landscaping solutions to manage moisture.
- Seal cracks and crevices. Use expandable foam, caulk, or spackle to seal off potential entry points.
Frequently Asked Silverfish Questions
At Aimix, our pest control plans include silverfish control, along with protection from other common pests such as mice, rats, roaches, spiders, and ants. All silverfish control plans are protected with the Nix guarantee – if pests come back between treatments, so will we. View pricing in your area.
There are a few natural remedies that can help get rid of silverfish. Some options include using diatomaceous earth and boric acid. Additionally, you can try reducing excess moisture in your home by using a dehumidifier or fixing any leaks.
Silverfish are not known to be dangerous to humans, as they do not bite or transmit diseases. However, they can cause damage to books, clothing, and other household items, so it's essential to take steps to prevent and control infestations if you notice them in your home.
