Warning! If you have found this insect (silverfish) in your home, it’s a sign that you need to…see more…

However, they can be destructive. Silverfish can damage your belongings by feeding on:

Paper products and books

Photographs and important documents

Wallpaper and fabric

Stored food

If you have a large infestation, they can cause significant damage to valuable items like old books, family heirlooms, and irreplaceable documents.

They can also trigger allergies in some people. The proteins in their shed skins and droppings can cause allergic reactions or asthma symptoms, especially in sensitive individuals.

So while they’re not dangerous in the “will bite me” sense, they’re definitely unwelcome guests.

Why Are They in My Home Specifically?

Silverfish are incredibly adaptable. They can survive in almost any environment, but they thrive in certain conditions.

Common Entry Points:

Cracks in foundations

Gaps around doors and windows

Vents and utility lines

Cardboard boxes and packaging (they love hitchhiking in)

Used furniture and books

Why They Choose Your Home:

High humidity (above 70%—common in bathrooms, basements, kitchens)

Water leaks (dripping pipes, condensation)

Clutter (paper piles, boxes, stacks of books)

Food sources (open containers, pet food, forgotten pantry items)

If you have silverfish, you likely have at least one of these conditions. Addressing the root cause is the key to getting rid of them permanently.

Signs of a Silverfish Infestation
One silverfish doesn’t mean an infestation. But if you start noticing any of these signs, it’s time to take action:

Sightings: Seeing them regularly, especially during the day

Shed skins: Silverfish molt as they grow. You might find translucent, silvery skins in cupboards, drawers, and corners

Feces: Tiny, black pepper-like droppings in areas where they feed

Damage: Irregular holes or yellow stains on paper, books, wallpaper, or fabric

Musty odor: A large infestation can produce a subtle, unpleasant smell

How to Get Rid of Silverfish (Without Losing Your Mind)

I’ve been through this. Here’s what actually works.

Step 1: Identify the Source

You can’t get rid of silverfish without addressing what’s attracting them. Check for:

Leaky pipes or faucets

Poor ventilation in bathrooms and basements

Cluttered areas with cardboard or paper