Got Silverfish? What are they exactly?
Silverfish are small, silver-colored insects that can become a problem in many homes. Even though they don’t bite or spread disease, they can damage your belongings, especially items like books, papers, clothes, and even some foods. In this post, we’ll explain what silverfish are, why they invade homes, and what you can do to keep them away.
What Are Silverfish?
Silverfish are tiny, wingless insects that get their name from their shiny, silver scales and fish-like movements. They grow to about half an inch to an inch in length and have long antennae. These pests are nocturnal, meaning they’re more active at night. Silverfish don’t harm humans directly, but they can cause damage by feeding on starchy materials like paper, glue, fabric, and some foods.
Why Do Silverfish Come Into Your Home?
Silverfish are drawn to areas that are dark, humid, and warm, making bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics their favorite spots. They feed on starchy and sugary items, which can include anything from wallpaper glue to cereal. Homes with high humidity, clutter, or improperly stored food are more likely to attract silverfish.
Common reasons for a silverfish infestation:
- High humidity: Silverfish love moisture, so leaky pipes, damp basements, or poorly ventilated bathrooms can invite them in.
- Clutter: Piles of paper, boxes, or clothes provide great hiding spots for silverfish.
- Food sources: Silverfish will eat almost anything that contains starch, including books, fabrics, and even hair.
Signs of a Silverfish Infestation
Here’s how to spot if you’ve got silverfish in your home:
- Shed skins: Silverfish molt, leaving behind small, clear skins.
- Damage to items: Look for small holes or chew marks on paper, wallpaper, clothes, or even cardboard boxes.
- Yellow stains or scales: These can show up on surfaces where silverfish travel.
- Sightings: While they’re more active at night, you may spot silverfish in dark, damp areas of your home.
How to Prevent Silverfish
Preventing silverfish means making your home less appealing to them. Here are some easy ways to do that:
- Reduce moisture: Use dehumidifiers in areas like the basement or bathroom. Fix leaky pipes and ensure good ventilation.
- Seal cracks and gaps: Silverfish can enter through small cracks in walls, windows, and doors. Seal these openings with caulk.
- Declutter your home: Get rid of piles of paper, old books, and cardboard boxes. Store important items in airtight containers.
- Store food properly: Keep dry foods, such as cereal and flour, in sealed containers.
- Clean regularly: Sweep, mop, and vacuum your home to get rid of dust and crumbs. Focus on areas like closets, basements, and under furniture.
Professional Help for Silverfish Control
If you’ve got silverfish that won’t go away, professional pest control can help. A pest control service will inspect your home, find the entry points, and use targeted treatments to get rid of silverfish for good.
At Hannan Environmental Services, we use safe and eco-friendly methods to remove silverfish and other pests from your home. Our team will not only get rid of the current infestation but also help you prevent future ones by addressing moisture issues and sealing entry points.
Why Choose Hannan Environmental Services?
When you need professional help with silverfish, Hannan Environmental Services offers:
- Thorough inspections: We carefully check your home for silverfish and identify areas where they might be entering.
- Custom treatment plans: We create a treatment plan tailored to your home’s needs to remove silverfish and keep them out.
- Safe methods: Our treatments are eco-friendly and safe for both your family and pets.
- Ongoing support: We provide follow-up services to ensure the silverfish don’t return.
Conclusion
Silverfish are common household pests, but with the right steps, you can prevent them from causing damage to your home. Reducing moisture, keeping your home clean, and sealing entry points are key to keeping these pests at bay. However, if you’re struggling with an infestation, professional pest control can offer the best solution.
If you’ve got silverfish, or any other type of pest problem, don’t hesitate to contact Hannan Environmental Services or click here for a FREE no-obligation quote today! You can also learn more about Hannan on Facebook.