Silverfish

• The most obvious sign is seeing the insects themselves. Silverfish are about 12-19 mm long, with a teardrop-shaped body, silver-grey color, and fish-like movements. They are typically seen in damp, dark areas.

• Silverfish molt throughout their life, leaving behind small, translucent exoskeletons. Finding these shed skins is a clear sign of their presence.

• Look for irregular holes or notches in paper, wallpaper, book bindings, clothing, and other starchy materials. Silverfish feed on carbohydrates and proteins, which can result in damaged items around the home.

• Silverfish leave behind yellowish stains and scales on surfaces they travel across. These marks are often found in areas where they are active, such as along baseboards, inside cupboards, or near bookshelves.

• Silverfish droppings look like small, black pepper-like specks. These are usually found in areas where they are most active, such as under sinks, in bathrooms, and near food sources.

• Silverfish thrive in moist environments. Use dehumidifiers in basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas to maintain a low humidity level. Ensure proper ventilation, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, by using exhaust fans or opening windows.

• Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and roofs promptly. Ensure that gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation.

• Inspect and seal cracks, crevices, and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations. Use caulking or weather stripping to block potential entry points for silverfish.



• Maintain a clean home to reduce food sources for silverfish. Vacuum regularly in areas where crumbs and debris can accumulate. Clean out closets, cabinets, and storage areas periodically. Reduce clutter, particularly in storage areas like basements and attics. Cardboard boxes and piles of paper can attract silverfish. Opt for plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids instead.