How to Kill Silverfish in the Attic

Silverfish eat starchy foods like book glue, fabrics and grains.

Silverfish are insect pests that live in moist, dark environments such as attics and basements. Though silverfish do not bite or harm humans, they can become a nuisance by feeding on book glue and fabric, causing holes to appear in paper items and textiles. You can easily eliminate silverfish to prevent further damage to your stored items.

Things You'll Need

• Caulk
• Airtight plastic storage boxes

Instructions

1. Purchase a pest control product labeled for use with silverfish, or with ingredients known to harm silverfish. Some natural choices include products with diatomaceous earth, boric acid, silica gel or clove oil. Choose powdered products to shake into cracks and spray products to kill silverfish on contact.

2. Shake powdered insecticides into cracks and crevices wherever you have noticed silverfish. Spray silverfish to kill them on contact.

3. Seal silverfish nests and entrance holes with caulk to prevent future infestation.

4. Throw away moldy items and store fabric, books and paper items in airtight plastic storage containers to prevent attracting silverfish

References

• Texas A&M University; Silverfish and Firebrats; John A. Jackman, et al.
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Silverfish and Firebrats; Barb Ogg
• University of Florida; IPM for Silverfish, Firebrats and Booklice in Schools; S. Darr, et al.; May 1998