Life Hack: What are silverfish? What to do if they are in your home
Silverfish feed on starchy materials like paper. Picture: iStock
Silverfish are small, silvery-grey coloured insects that are between half an inch and one inch in length. They get their name both from their colour and their fishlike shape — they are broader at the head and narrow to a fin-shaped tail. They have shiny, silvery scales and long antennae with three long bristles at the end of their bodies.
In domestic settings, silverfish are often found in dark and damp environments like attics and bathrooms. They feed on starchy materials like paper, glue, and clothing. There are a number of signs of infestation to be aware of.
Silverfish shed their skin so finding translucent skin in your home will indicate their presence. They also leave yellow stains where they have been active, like on walls. Seeing a silverfish crawling on a surface is another clear sign. You may also notice damage caused by silverfish, including small holes in clothing and other fabrics and damage to books and magazines as they are attracted to paper. They can also emit a musty odour.
Silverfish do not bite or sting so they are considered harmless to humans and pets’ physical health. However in rare cases they are believed to trigger asthma or allergies in people who are sensitive to their shed skin or faeces. They can be a source of stress and anxiety too, particularly for people with a phobia of insects. As detailed above, they can also damage belongings which may be costly to replace.
As silverfish thrive in damp environments, reducing the moisture levels in your home can repel them. You can do this by using a dehumidifier, ensuring you have proper ventilation and fixing any leaks.
Being very small, silverfish can access your home through small gaps and cracks. Seal any openings in your walls and floors to prevent them from entering. Storing items like paper, glue, and clothing in airtight containers or plastic bags can keep them safe while denying them as a food source for silverfish.
Essential oils like lavender, cedar, and citrus are natural repellents. Soak cotton balls in these oils and place them in areas where silverfish are likely to be found.
Finally, regular cleaning can help prevent silverfish infestations as this can remove food sources and reduce moisture levels. You can remove silverfish eggs and larvae by vacuuming carpets and floors regularly, and dusting shelves and cabinets.
