How To Get Rid of Silverfish in Your Property
Silverfish are small, fast-moving insects that love damp, dark areas. They are a common problem in homes and businesses, especially in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver and Burnaby. While they don’t bite or spread disease, silverfish can damage books, wallpaper, clothing, and stored food, which makes them a real nuisance.
The good news is, with the right approach, you can get rid of silverfish and keep them from coming back.
1. Identify the Problem
Before taking action, make sure the insects you’re dealing with are actually silverfish. They are:
- Silvery-grey and shiny
- About 1/2 to 1 inch long
- Fast-moving and wriggly
- Prefer dark, damp places like basements, bathrooms, kitchens, or storage areas
Finding where they hide will help you target your treatment effectively.
2. Keep Your Property Dry
Silverfish love moisture, so reducing dampness is one of the most effective ways to prevent them. You can:
- Fix leaking pipes or faucets
- Use a dehumidifier in basements and bathrooms
- Make sure your property has good ventilation
- Avoid leaving wet towels or clothes lying around
A dry environment makes it much harder for silverfish to survive.
3. Declutter and Clean
Silverfish hide in cluttered spaces and feed on paper, cardboard, and fabric. To make your property less inviting:
- Store books and papers in sealed containers
- Keep clothes and linens in closets with doors closed
- Vacuum regularly, especially corners, baseboards, and behind furniture
Keeping surfaces clean removes their food sources and hiding spots.
4. Use Traps and Baits
You can use silverfish traps and baits to monitor and reduce their numbers. These are available at hardware stores, but they work best as part of a bigger prevention plan.
Avoid using chemicals on your own in areas where people or pets are frequently present, as improper use can be unsafe.
5. Call the Professionals
Silverfish infestations can be tricky to eliminate on your own, especially if the insects have spread throughout your property. A licensed pest control specialist can:
- Inspect your home or business to find hiding spots
- Apply safe and effective treatments
- Advice on prevention methods to keep silverfish away for good
Professional treatments are faster, more reliable, and help prevent recurring problems.
Protect Your Property from Silverfish with Eastside Pest Control Vancouver
During the spring season, silverfish and other pests often start showing up in both commercial and residential properties. If you notice signs of silverfish or other pests, it’s the right time to call a professional.
At Eastside Pest Control, we offer pest control services in Downtown Vancouver and Burnaby. Whether it’s your home, office, or commercial space, we provide fast, effective, and safe solutions.
Request a quote or call us today to protect your property from silverfish and other pests before they become a bigger problem.