What are silverfish?
Silverfish are small, wingless insects around 1 to 2cm long, silvery-grey and teardrop-shaped, with long antennae and three tail-like bristles. They move quickly and are mostly active at night, so you often see them when you switch on a light in a bathroom or kitchen.
Why do I have silverfish?
Silverfish are attracted by:
- Damp and humidity. Bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, under sinks and basements are ideal
- Food they can digest. They eat starchy materials, including paper, cardboard, glue, wallpaper paste, book bindings and some fabrics
- Dark, undisturbed spaces. Cupboards, behind skirting boards and under floors
- Clutter. Piles of paper, boxes and stored items give them food and hiding places
How they get in
Silverfish enter through cracks in walls and floors, gaps around pipes and windows, and by being carried in on cardboard boxes, books and second-hand items.
How to get rid of silverfish
- Reduce humidity. Fix leaks, ventilate bathrooms and kitchens, and use a dehumidifier in damp rooms. Aim for humidity below about 50 per cent
- Declutter. Move stored paper, cardboard and clothes into sealed plastic boxes
- Seal cracks and gaps around skirting boards, pipes and windows
- Vacuum regularly in corners, under furniture and in cupboards
- Use sticky traps to monitor where they are active, which shows you where to focus
- Check new items such as boxes and second-hand books before bringing them in
Are silverfish a sign of a bigger problem?
They can be. Silverfish often point to damp, and persistent damp can lead to mould and damage. If you cannot find the source of moisture, get a professional to investigate.
When to call a professional
Call an expert if silverfish keep returning despite your efforts, if you see them in large numbers or if they are damaging books, documents or stock in a business. A technician can find the cause and apply treatment where needed. See how much pest control costs in the UK if you are weighing up your options.
Frequently asked questions
Are silverfish harmful?
They do not bite or spread disease, but they damage paper, fabrics and food packaging.
Do silverfish mean my house is dirty?
No. They are attracted by damp and starchy materials, not by dirt.
Can silverfish live in dry homes?
They prefer humid conditions, but can survive in drier areas if they have access to moisture and food.
Need help with silverfish?
Visit anticimex.co.uk to speak to our team.