Getting Rid Of Silverfish
Silverfish are relatively small, silvery-blue colored insects that prefer dark, moist spaces. They can move around most homes or business facilities undetected due to their habit of staying away from open, visible spaces. Silverfish are about a half-inch in length, with bodies that taper toward the rear. Unlike insects with shorter life spans, silverfish can live up to eight years. They reproduce quickly, can go without food or water for several weeks, and are typically active at night. It’s easy to overlook an infestation because of their fast movements and nocturnal habits.
Although silverfish are not associated with any diseases, in large groups they can consume considerable amounts of material, which can result in costly amounts worth of damage to a business or home. They are known to be particularly troublesome for the hotel and restaurant industries, as they can damage furniture, curtains, and other materials, and invade starchy food sources. If you think you have a silverfish issue, contacting a pest control company can be your easiest solution.
Silverfish eat a variety of items commonly found in homes and businesses, including:
- Book bindings
- Carpeting
- Clothing
- Coffee
- Dandruff
- Hair
- Paper
- Paints
- Sugar
To prevent them from taking root in a structure, have your building inspected for areas where they might enter, and seal any cracks and holes completely. Check the seals around windows and doors, ensuring they are intact and placed correctly.
The next step is to sanitize the facility. In most cases, a thorough cleaning of the area dissuades silverfish from sticking around, since they can’t find a continual food source. Silverfish most commonly make their nests near reliable, recurring food sources. Don’t leave piles of newspaper or mail lying about, and vacuum regularly to pick up food crumbs. Performing those tasks can help ensure that any existing silverfish will want to move to a more desirable location to nest.
For areas with high humidity or moisture, consider installing a dehumidifier, or a fan for bathroom showers and tubs.
If your home or business is facing an infestation or you have questions and concerns about how to prevent an infestation, consult a professional. Professional pest control companies like JP Pest Services have years of experience and the proper solutions to solve a silverfish problem and help prevent the damage this insect can cause. Request a free commercial consultation or a free residential estimate to create a plan to eliminate a silverfish infestation.
For more information on other cloth-eating bugs, check out this article from our blog!
