Step 5: Use Natural Deterrents
Silverfish don’t like certain scents. You can use natural repellents like:
Cedar shavings: Place in drawers, closets, and bookcases
Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle food-grade DE in corners and cracks—it dehydrates and kills insects
Lavender, cinnamon, or citrus oils: Silverfish hate strong scents
Sticky traps: Place in areas where you’ve seen activity
Step 6: Natural Sprays
Create a simple spray using water and a few drops of essential oil (lavender, citrus, or peppermint). Spray in areas where silverfish are active.
Step 7: Professional Help
If natural methods don’t work, you can try chemical treatments or consult a pest control professional.
Preventing Future Infestations
Once you’ve cleared them out, keep them from coming back.
Reduce humidity year-round
Declutter regularly
Store items in plastic, not cardboard
Inspect secondhand items before bringing them into your home
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Are silverfish harmful to my pets?
No. They don’t bite or carry diseases that affect animals. Your cat or dog might eat one, but it won’t hurt them.
Do silverfish bite humans?
No. They have no interest in biting people. They eat starches and cellulose, not blood.
Can silverfish climb walls?
Yes, they have tiny claws on their feet and can climb vertical surfaces—including walls and ceilings. But they prefer staying close to the floor.
Are silverfish a sign of a dirty house?
Not necessarily. They’re attracted to moisture and food sources, which can exist in any home. Clean homes can still have silverfish if there’s high humidity or water damage.
How long do silverfish live?
Up to 8 years. They have a remarkably long lifespan for insects.
What’s the best way to kill a silverfish?
Squish it. They’re not fast enough to escape a determined shoe. You can also catch them on sticky traps or use boric acid in cracks and crevices.
A Final, Compassionate Thought
When I saw that first silverfish scuttle across my bathroom floor, I felt like I had failed as a human. I thought it meant I was dirty, or that my apartment was falling apart.
But that’s not what silverfish mean. They’re not a moral failing. They’re just ancient survivors doing what they’ve done for 300 million years—looking for food, moisture, and shelter. They don’t care who owns the house. They just want to live.
Once I understood that, I stopped feeling grossed out and started feeling empowered. I fixed the leaky pipe. I sealed the crack behind the baseboard. I bought a dehumidifier. And after a few weeks, the silverfish were gone.
⏬️ Continued on the next page ⏬️
