Silverfish and Firebrats in your cupboards, and every where else??

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

August 14, 2024

Silverfish and firebrats are small, wingless insects known for their fish-like appearance due to their wriggling movement. They often seek out dark, damp environments, which can make your cupboards an attractive place for them. Here’s what you can do to deal with them:

Silverfish Identification

• Appearance: Silverfish are usually about 1/2 to 1 inch long, with a slender, elongated body covered in tiny scales that give them a metallic sheen.
• Behavior: They are nocturnal and prefer dark, humid environments. They’re often found in basements, attics, or in storage areas like cupboards.

Prevention and Control

1. Reduce Humidity: Silverfish thrive in damp conditions. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to reduce moisture levels in your home. Fix any leaks and ensure good ventilation.
2. Clean Regularly: Vacuum and clean your cupboards and other infested areas regularly to remove any potential food sources and silverfish themselves. Pay special attention to corners and cracks.
3. Store Food Properly: Store dry goods in airtight containers to prevent silverfish from feeding on them. Make sure your cupboards are clean and free of crumbs or food debris.
4. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Seal any cracks or gaps in walls, floors, or around cupboards to prevent silverfish from entering and moving around.
5. Use Silverfish Traps: Commercial traps can help monitor and reduce silverfish populations. You can find them at hardware or home improvement stores.
6. Natural Repellents: Silverfish dislike strong scents. You can use natural repellents like cedar blocks, bay leaves, or diatomaceous earth in your cupboards to deter them.
7. Insecticides: For severe infestations, consider using insecticides specifically designed for silverfish. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider consulting a pest control professional for persistent problems.

By addressing moisture issues, maintaining cleanliness, and taking preventive measures, you can effectively manage and reduce silverfish in your cupboards.

Firebrats vs. Silverfish

• Appearance: Firebrats are similar in shape to silverfish but are usually darker, ranging from gray to brown with a mottled appearance. They also have a more rounded body compared to the slender, elongated shape of silverfish.
• Habitat Preferences: While silverfish are often found in cooler, damp places, firebrats prefer warmer environments. They are commonly found in places with higher temperatures, such as near heating vents or in attics.

How to Manage Firebrats

1. Temperature Control
2. Moisture Management
3. Cleanliness
4. Proper Food Storage
5. Sealing Entry Points
6. Natural Repellents
7. Traps and Monitoring
8. Chemical Solutions
9. Call Go Green Pest Control Corp. 778-886-4111

Addressing the environmental factors that firebrats thrive in, along with cleanliness and sealing entry points, will help you manage and eventually get rid of these pests.

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