Silverfish

Silverfish thrive in humid spaces and feed on paper, glues, and starches.

Background & Behavior

(Lepisma saccharina) Also known as bristletails, silverfish are shiny, quick-moving insects that thrive in humid environments. They feed on starches, paper, glue, and fabrics, often damaging books and wallpaper. While harmless to humans, they indicate excess moisture. Reducing humidity and sealing crevices are effective deterrents.

DIY Approaches

Run dehumidifiers in bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.
Store documents and photos in sealed plastic bins.
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth behind baseboards and shelving.
Use glass jar traps baited with flour and tape wrapped on the exterior.
Seal wallpaper seams and cracks where silverfish hide.

Professional Services

Arrange for targeted insecticide applications in wall voids and attics.
Request moisture assessments with remediation recommendations.
Have pest pros treat crawl spaces with desiccant dusts.
Schedule follow-up visits to monitor humid zones closely.
Engage archival storage consultants for document preservation strategies.

Photo Gallery