What Do Silverfish Hate?

Silverfish, those tiny, silvery insects that scuttle around in dark, damp corners of our homes, are not just a nuisance—they can cause damage to books, clothing, and even wallpaper. So, what do silverfish hate? 

Natural Silverfish Replents

1. Dry Environments Silverfish thrive in humid environments, typically where there is 75% to 95% humidity. They are often found in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens where moisture levels are high. However, they hate dry environments. Reducing humidity in your home can make it less attractive to silverfish.

• Practical tip: Use dehumidifiers in areas where moisture is prevalent. Ensure that all leaks are fixed, and ventilation in damp areas is adequate. Consider using moisture absorbers in closets and other enclosed spaces to keep them dry.

  2. Light Silverfish are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night and tend to avoid light. They are photophobic, which means they actively flee from bright, well-lit areas.

• Practical tip: Keep your living spaces well-lit, especially at night, to discourage silverfish activity. You can also use lighting strategically in areas where silverfish are commonly seen, like basements or attics.

  3. High Temperatures While silverfish can survive in various temperature conditions, they prefer cooler environments ranging from 70°F to 80°F. Extremely high temperatures can be lethal to them, and they avoid areas that are too hot.

• Practical tip: Consider using a space heater in cooler, damp areas of your home where silverfish might be hiding. However, be cautious to avoid fire hazards or damage to your belongings.

  4. Strong Scents Certain strong scents are known to repel silverfish. These pests hate the smell of citrus, cinnamon, and lavender. Essential oils derived from these sources can be effective in keeping silverfish away from your home.

• Practical tip: Dab a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or citrus, on cotton balls and place them in areas where silverfish are likely to hide, such as drawers, closets, and bookshelves.

  5. Lack of Food Sources Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches. This includes items like paper, glue, clothing, and even food crumbs. If these food sources are not readily available, silverfish are less likely to inhabit an area.

• Practical tip: Keep your home clean and free of food crumbs. Store books, papers, and clothes in sealed containers. Regularly vacuum and dust areas where silverfish might find food.

 

Myths and Facts About Silverfish in Homes

Myth	Fact
Silverfish are dangerous to humans.	Silverfish are harmless to humans and do not transmit diseases.
Silverfish can bite.	Silverfish do not bite or sting humans.
Silverfish are only found in dirty homes.	Silverfish can inhabit any home, especially if there is high humidity.
All silverfish are silver in color.	While most are silver, some species may appear brownish or bluish.
Silverfish infestations are easy to spot.	Silverfish are elusive and usually come out only at night, making them hard to detect.