5 DIY Hacks To Get Rid Of Silverfish Insects Quickly From Your Home

DIY Hacks To Remove Silverfish: Silverfish are one of the most common household insects that often go unnoticed until the damage becomes visible. These small, wingless insects with silver scales thrive in dark, humid corners of the house and feed on everyday items such as paper, cardboard, glue, fabric and pantry foods. Additionally, because they can lay up to 100 eggs at one time, this can turn a minor sighting into a full infestation rather quickly. While they do not bite or spread disease, a silverfish infestation can damage books, clothes and other household items. However, with DIY hacks, you can quickly get rid of silverfish from your home.

With easy DIY ways to get rid of silverfish in the home, you first need to understand what attracts them and work to eliminate them. These DIY silverfish control tips are safe and chemical-free options without the inclusion of harsh pesticides. Here are the five DIY hacks to get rid of silverfish from your home.

Easy DIY Ways To Get Rid Of Silverfish

Use Non-Toxic Sticky Traps

Sticky traps are an effective DIY hack to get rid of small silverfish infestations. Commercial cockroach traps are effective because silverfish get attracted to the glue and bait inside. You can also take a small glass jar and wrap its exterior in masking tape. The textured tape helps the insects climb up and fall inside, but the smooth glass prevents them from escaping. You can place these jars in dark corners, along skirting boards, under sinks, inside cupboards and near known sources of food or moisture.

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Sprinkle Desiccant Powders

Desiccant powders such as diatomaceous earth and silica aerogel are highly effective DIY natural treatments. These substances cling to a silverfish’s body as it crawls over them. These powers absorbed the moisture and oils from the insect’s outer surface, eventually causing dehydration and death. Sprinkle a light layer along floorboards, inside cupboards, around plumbing fixtures and others.

Remove And Protect Food Sources

As silverfish thrive on starchy, sugary or protein-rich materials, limiting their access to food is essential. Store grains, cereals, flour, and dry pet food in airtight containers. Keep paper goods, important documents and books off the floor and away from damp areas. Tidying craft supplies, sewing materials and old clothing can make a difference as silverfish are often attracted to glues, adhesives and natural fabrics. Declutter shelves, vacuum hidden corners and remove storage boxes to get rid of silverfish.

Reduce Humidity In Damp Areas

Silverfish love moisture and thrive in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and areas with poor ventilation. Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms, run exhaust fans when cooking or showering, and ensure proper airflow in cupboards, lofts and storage spaces to reduce humidity and silverfish. When humidity levels drop, their breeding slows, making them easier to eliminate.

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Seal Cracks, Gaps And Entry Points

Silverfish can squeeze through small openings; thus, sealing cracks and gaps plays a crucial role in preventing re-entry. Inspect your home’s foundations, skirting boards, doorframes, window sills and areas around pipes or cables. Use caulk, silicone sealant, or weather stripping to close off potential entry points. These keep the silverfish out and also prevent them from breeding in hidden areas.

Implementing these five DIY hacks to get rid of silverfish helps one to maintain a cleaner, healthier living area. These not only prevent silverfish infestation but also prevent the damage of personal belongings.