As the summer season approaches, it’s not just the heat that increases. The presence of tiny creatures, finding their way into our homes through the smallest of crevices, also becomes more noticeable.
One of the most common of these are silverfish, also known as humidity bugs. These elongated, silver-grey creatures thrive in cool, dark areas. But what does their presence mean for your home?
The Hidden Life of Silverfish
These tiny silverfish primarily feed on organic matter found in door frames and baseboards, especially in damp rooms like the bathroom. They also survive on sugar, starch, fabric, silicone, and skin flakes. While they may not pose a significant problem if not in large numbers, their presence can attract other insect species, increasing the risk of an infestation.
Despite being harmless themselves, no one enjoys the presence of bugs in their homes. “Eliminating them can be quite challenging,” due to their slippery nature and high speed. Their small size allows them to hide in tiny cracks and holes, making extermination even more difficult. However, they can’t resist ethyl alcohol and insecticide. Spraying boric acid into crevices, corners, and cracks where they might reside can help reduce the number of silverfish in your home.
Proactive Measures Against Silverfish
If you haven’t spotted any of these insects yet, there’s still time to take preventive measures. There are several home remedies to keep these unwelcome guests at bay. Lavender is one such remedy. Just a few drops of essential oil in the areas where they usually appear can deter the bugs and prevent them from establishing nests.
Another strong deterrent against silverfish is cinnamon. A few branches of this plant scattered around the house can be a very effective remedy against these peculiar insects. To this, you can add cedar shavings, which can be placed in different areas of the house to reinforce these tricks.
As a last resort, you can create a homemade trap using a glass jar and oat flakes. Stick the jar to the floor with tape to prevent it from moving. The silverfish will be attracted to the oats inside the jar. When they try to escape, they will be prevented by the glass surface, which will cause them to slip.
During the summer season, apart from the heat, a higher presence of insects in the environment is common. These tiny bugs sneak into the nooks and crannies of our homes, regardless of how clean and organized it is. They will always find a way to make their way into any home. One of the most common are the silverfish, also known as humidity bugs. They are small elongated creatures, of a silver-grey tone, that usually proliferate in cool and dark areas.
Remember, the presence of silverfish in your home is not just a nuisance, but could also be a sign of a larger problem. Take action today to keep your home pest-free.
I was an intern at the editorial office. When I saw their ad for a freelancer, I decided to come back. I’m a fan of series and movies, I spend my weekends at the cinema and my nights in front of Netflix