Deterrents
Silverfish don’t like certain scents. You can use natural repellents like:
Cedar shavings: Place in drawers, closets, and bookcases
Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle food-grade DE in corners and cracks—it dehydrates and kills insects
Lavender, cinnamon, or citrus oils: Silverfish hate strong scents
Sticky traps: Place in areas where you’ve seen activity
Step 6: Chemical Treatments (If Needed)
If natural methods don’t work, you can try:
Insecticides: Sprays containing pyrethrin or permethrin
Boric acid: Dust into cracks and crevices (keep away from pets and children)
Professional pest control: If the infestation is severe
Preventing Future Infestations
Once you’ve cleared them out, keep them from coming back.
Reduce humidity year-round
Declutter regularly
Store items in plastic, not cardboard
Inspect secondhand items before bringing them into your home
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule
A Note on Silverfish vs. Firebrats
People often confuse silverfish with firebrats. Both are similar in appearance, but there are