What causes silverfish in a house?

I keep seeing small silverfish on the floor. What causes them to come inside? 

Silverfish come indoors for three main reasons: moisture, food, and shelter. Leaky pipes, high humidity, or poorly ventilated areas can all make your home more inviting to these pests.

• Moisture: Silverfish thrive in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
• Food: Silverfish feed on starches, paper, glue, and fabrics.
• Shelter: They hide in cracks, closets, and storage areas where it’s dark and quiet.

In the US, silverfish are found nationwide, especially in humid regions, but can survive almost anywhere once indoors. Outdoors, they tend to hide under rocks, wood, and leaves.

Where do silverfish live indoors?

Indoors, silverfish are often located in damp, cluttered spaces, especially those near stored items like paper, fabric, or other food sources. They are typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, and often lurk behind wallpaper or skirting boards.

Reducing humidity and sealing entry points may help reduce silverfish populations, but they are persistent pests. If you need help with silverfish, our technicians can inspect your property, find where the silverfish live, and take measures to protect your home. Find out more about our pest control service today.