Finding silverfish in your rented flat can be concerning. But if they showed up after you moved in, your lifestyle and habits may be enabling them. Silverfish thrive in damp, humid environments with food particles. If conditions were ideal before you arrived, it’s the landlord's issue. But if you introduced factors attracting silverfish, you may be responsible for the infestation.
Where Do They Come From?
Silverfish enter homes through cracks and crevices. They may also hitchhike in on infested boxes or books. If the property was free of silverfish before you moved in, their appearance now likely points to causes from your tenancy.
Is Your Lifestyle Supporting Silverfish?
Silverfish need humid conditions above 75% humidity and temperatures of 55-86°F to multiply. If you take steamy showers without venting afterward or dry laundry inside, you may be creating the perfect humid environment.
Silverfish feed on starchy materials like paper, photos, wallpaper glue, fabrics, and spilled food crumbs. Keeping a generally tidy home and storing foods properly prevents silverfish food sources.
Preventing Silverfis
- There are several steps you can take to discourage silverfish:
- Improve ventilation and use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture.
- Quickly clean up food spills and crumbs to remove nutrition sources.
- Seal cracks and crevices where silverfish enter and hide.
- Limit clutter and cardboard where silverfish lay eggs.
- Vacuum and shake out textiles regularly to remove eggs.
The Bottom Line
If silverfish appeared soon after you moved in then contact the landlord or agent as it may be the eggs hatching. Otherwise, your daily habits may be supporting an infestation. Tackling humidity, sanitation and home maintenance issues can help control silverfish without involving your landlord. With some diligence, you can banish these unwanted roomies.
Cheers,
Brett