If you’ve spotted small, silvery bugs darting around your bathroom floor or basement, chances are you’ve met a silverfish. These tiny insects, named for their fish-like appearance and wiggly movement, have been around for millions of years. Seeing them in your home means they’ve found a place that meets their needs: moisture and food.
Silverfish are about one to one and a half inches long, with flat bodies covered in silvery scales and long antennae. Although they don’t bite or spread disease, they can be troublesome guests because they snack on starchy and sugary materials. This includes items like glue in wallpaper, book covers, cardboard, and even fabric.
These insects are most active in humid, dark areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or laundry rooms. High humidity and darkness make your home inviting to them, so controlling moisture is important.
While harmless to humans, silverfish can damage your belongings. They chew on books, papers, wallpaper, and clothing, and their fast reproduction means an infestation can develop quickly if unchecked. Signs you have silverfish include tiny holes or yellow marks on paper, shed skins, and small black droppings like pepper in hidden corners.
To discourage these pests naturally, start by reducing humidity using dehumidifiers or fans and repairing leaks. Remove food sources by clearing away old papers and cardboard and storing food in sealed containers. Clean regularly and vacuum places where silverfish hide.
Seal cracks and gaps with caulk to cut off their entry points. Natural powders like diatomaceous earth kill silverfish by damaging their outer shells, and essential oils such as lavender or cedar can help repel them. Homemade traps using a jar coated in tape with bait inside can also catch them efficiently.
If silverfish become too many or start appearing during the day, professional pest control may be necessary. Prevention remains key—keep your home dry, reduce clutter, and store items properly to make your space less appealing to these bugs. Living naturally means understanding and managing pests safely and effectively.
