Easy Ways to Get Rid of Silverfish

If you’re a resident of Florida, silverfish are probably a familiar sight. If you’re not familiar with silverfish, consider yourself lucky. Contrary to what you might think, silverfish aren’t actually fish. They’re an insect and one of the most common household pests here in Florida. Silverfish feed on a variety of home items from sugars and grains to fabric and fibers. They often inhabit your closet, drawers and kitchen. 

Named after its silvery and light gray exterior, the silverfish is a small anthropoid that enters your home in search of food. They can be anywhere from half an inch to a full inch long. Silverfish are relatively harmless, but they can be annoying once they enter your home. Silverfish are also an indicator of how many small-sized entry points exist in your home.

Set Traps 

Placing silverfish traps around your home is one of the easiest ways to stem an infestation. You can even create your own. It’s as simple as putting some sugar, flour or scraps of bread at the bottom of the glass jar and sticking a strip of masking tape down the side of the jar. The silverfish will follow the scent of the food and climb into the jar with the help of the tape, but won’t be able to climb back out. Set your DIY jar traps around bookshelves, drawers, desks, pantries and damp places, such as under sinks and basements. 

Declutter  

Decluttering is another sure-fire way to prevent silverfish from making your home theirs. Because of the silverfish’s diverse eating habits, your library and your groceries are at risk. You can prevent this by putting a lid on your food and organizing your books and magazines. 

Use Oils as a Diffuser

Cedar and bay leaf oils create an aroma that Silverfish do not like. Putting that oil in a diffuser or mixing the oil in a spray bottle with water is great repellent. Place the diffuser or spray in entryways that you believe silverfish are coming through.

If you know or suspect that you have a silverfish infestation, DIY methods are no longer a viable option. It’s time to turn to the experts at Orange Environmental Services. We’ll devise an effective treatment plan specific to your situation. With over 45 years of experience serving Northeastern Florida, you can rest assured that your home will be silverfish-free in short order. Contact Orange Environmental Services today!