While silverfish don't bite or sting, their presence can be unsightly and frustrating. If left unchecked, a silverfish infestation can potentially damage books, clothes, and other household items. Silverfish are insects that are often drawn to homes for food and moisture. They can enter through cracks and crevices or even hitch a ride on items brought into the house. To help protect your home and belongings, it's essential to get rid of silverfish as soon as possible.

Identifying silverfish and their hiding spots

Silverfish are small, wingless insects that are often found in homes. They have a distinctive, silvery-gray color and a long, slender body that tapers towards the tail. You'll typically find them in dark, damp areas of your home, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. They are particularly attracted to areas with high humidity, like drains, leaky pipes, or poorly ventilated spaces. They are also drawn to starchy foods and paper products, so you may find them near boxes of cereal, bookshelves, or stacks of paper.

Silverfish on book

How to help get rid of silverfish

If you need help with how to get rid of silverfish in your house, focus on reducing moisture and food sources. Start by cleaning up clutter, vacuuming regularly, and wiping down surfaces. Store food in airtight containers and repair any leaky pipes or faucets. Try using a dehumidifier in any damp areas. For direct control, you can use sticky traps to monitor activity. If the infestation is severe, consulting a professional pest control service may be necessary.

Professional pest control

When dealing with silverfish, it’s best to let professionals handle the situation. It can be tricky to get rid of silverfish, and using insecticides requires proper training to ensure safety and effectiveness. Professionals know how to apply these products correctly and where to place them for the best results.

At Terminix, we have the expertise and tools to effectively target silverfish and provide a comprehensive solution to help eliminate them from your home. Get started with our silverfish control services today!

Preventing silverfish from coming back

The best way to get rid of silverfish in your house is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Here are some DIY tips to help prevent silverfish infestations:

  • Reduce moisture: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas, fix leaky pipes, and improve ventilation.

  • Clean regularly: Dust and vacuum frequently to remove food sources.

  • Store food properly: Keep food in airtight containers, especially grains and cereals.

  • Reduce clutter: Silverfish bugs are attracted to paper products and cardboard.

  • Seal entry points: Caulk cracks and crevices to prevent entry.

For year-round protection from up to 39 pests, including silverfish, try one of our Terminix PestFree365 pest control plans to help prevent these unwanted pests from entering your home.1

1Service frequency will vary based on geography. Covered Pests defined in your Plan. Automatic payment sign-up is required for PestFree365+. Voles and fire ants are only covered if they are in the home, we will not treat the lawn. Homes must be free of bed bugs at the initial service to qualify for coverage of bed bugs under the PestFree365+ Plan. Applies to single-family, free-standing, owner-occupied homes only. Account must be in good standing. Other limitations may apply. See Plan for details.