Home remedies to banish silverfish from your bathroom
Silverfish can make life difficult. They most commonly appear where it is moist and warm, such as the bathroom, which is a paradise for them. Want to get rid of them? Combat them using a home remedy.
3:43 PM EDT, October 21, 2024
Silverfish are small insects that can run at a very fast pace. They reach between 0.5 and 1 inch in length. They are characterized by long, thread-like antennae and a silvery, shiny abdomen, which is why they are sometimes called silverfish. Their natural environment is the tropics, which is why they have taken a liking to hot, humid bathrooms in certain places. Although they are generally considered harmless, having them in your home is not the most pleasant experience.
Where do silverfish appear? They often hide in these places
Although it is commonly accepted that silverfish are most often found in the bathroom, these clever insects also inhabit other rooms. They feed on products rich in starch, organic glue, paper scraps, and sugar. You can also find them in the kitchen. They often hide behind the refrigerator or in cabinets under the sink. Food scraps and a small amount of moisture effectively attract them.
Silverfish are also often seen in utility rooms and laundries. If there is high humidity, silverfish will surely appear in the corners, especially if you do not take care of proper ventilation. The insects like to hide in crevices, nooks, as well as under furniture, carpets, wallpapers, and baseboards. How can you get rid of them? There are several proven methods.
What effectively drives silverfish out of the house? You probably have this in your kitchen
Like most insects, silverfish are very sensitive to scents. Some attract them, while others repel them. If you want to get rid of unwanted guests, wash the entire bathroom with water and white vinegar. Silverfish cannot stand this aroma, and as soon as they smell it, they immediately flee. Vinegar will also disinfect and polish the surfaces.
However, there is another method that does not require the use of vinegar. You will simply need essential oil like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus. Spraying the oils around areas where silverfish like to nest can effectively repel them and keep them away for a long time.
Also, ensure regular ventilation of rooms – fresh air will help reduce humidity, which is crucial for protecting against these pesky bugs. Sprinkling baking soda and rice in areas prone to moisture (e.g., overnight) can help absorb excess moisture, causing the silverfish to disappear faster. Air dehumidifiers can also be helpful.
It's also worth taking care of cleanliness. Remove trash regularly and avoid leaving food scraps on counters or floors. The less food silverfish find, the faster they will leave your home.
If home methods fail, you can resort to chemical agents available at hardware or gardening stores. However, it is worth using them cautiously and following the manufacturer's recommendations.
