Silverfish are small, wingless insects commonly found in homes and buildings. While they do not bite or harm humans or pets, their presence can be unsettling and may indicate excess moisture or poor sanitation.
🔍 Identifying Silverfish
🪶 Appearance:
Silvery-gray color
Fish-like shape with an elongated body
Three tail-like appendages at the rear
Size: ½ to ¾ inch long
🌙 Habitat & Behaviour:
Nocturnal – Active at night, often hiding during the day
Found in dark, damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics
Attracted to humidity and moisture
⚠️ Signs of a Silverfish Infestation
🔸 Sightings: Silverfish crawling in damp, dark areas of your home
🔸 Damage to paper-based materials: Books, wallpaper, cardboard boxes, and documents (they feed on cellulose and starch)
🔸 Small holes or chew marks on paper, fabric, or stored food packaging
📌 If you notice signs of silverfish, it's your responsibility to take action. LifeX does not provide pest control for silverfish, as their presence is often due to individual living habits.
🏡 Preventing Silverfish Infestations
Taking preventative steps is key to keeping silverfish away from your home.
1️⃣ Reduce Moisture 💦
Use dehumidifiers in damp areas (bathrooms, basements, kitchens)
Fix leaks from pipes, sinks, and faucets
Improve ventilation – open windows or use exhaust fans in humid spaces
2️⃣ Seal Entry Points 🚪
Silverfish enter through small cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, windows, and doors
Use caulk or weather stripping to seal possible entry points
3️⃣ Declutter & Clean Regularly 🧹
Remove piles of paper, cardboard, and old books, as silverfish are attracted to these materials
Vacuum and dust frequently to eliminate their hiding spots
Wipe down surfaces to remove food particles and crumbs
4️⃣ Store Food Properly 🍞
Keep dry goods (flour, cereals, grains) in airtight containers
Regularly check stored food for signs of infestation
🚨 What to Do If You Have Silverfish
If you spot silverfish in your apartment, try the following steps:
🔹 Set up traps – Sticky traps or boric acid powder can help reduce their numbers
🔹 Use natural repellents – Cedarwood, bay leaves, and citrus scents deter silverfish
🔹 Increase airflow – Open windows and use fans to keep rooms dry
🔹 Dispose of infested items – If silverfish have damaged books, papers, or food, discard them immediately
📌 Since silverfish are attracted by personal habits (clutter, humidity, food storage), members are responsible for handling infestations themselves. LifeX will not cover pest control for silverfish.
By keeping your home clean, dry, and well-maintained, you can prevent silverfish from becoming a problem. If you need further guidance, feel free to reach out to LifeX support! 😊
🔎Still need help? Contact LifeX Support via the app!🛠️