As with all our pest treatments we start with a thorough inspection to fully understand the nature of the problem. Finding all the locations where the silverfish are hiding is important to ensure we eliminate the problem.

Wardrobes & Drawers

Once we have determined all the infestation sites, it is important to empty all the wardrobes and cupboards and treat all clothes, not just the clothes with obvious damage. This is important as silverfish and their eggs can be hard to spot.

Kitchen

Similarly, if the silverfish problem is in the kitchen cupboards and drawers, they need to be emptied of food and crockery / utensils, so we can carry out a treatment.

Storage areas

If the silverfish problem is in storage areas, all the boxes need to be removed and opened and emptied for inspection and treatment. Silverfish LOVE cardboard boxes (which they eat!), so storing goods is sealed plastic boxes is the way to go.

Heat can be used to kill silverfish and their eggs in clothes. Clothes can be washed in a hot wash and tumble dried (if the fabric allows) or placed into black plastic bags, sealed and placed in the sun for a couple of hours.

All the wardrobes will then be treated with a water-based spray to kill any eggs and silverfish present and leave a residue for long lasting protection. Once dried belongings can be returned.

Silverfish love the insulation in roof voids and also the damp sub-floor environment. Treating these areas with insecticide dust kills any silverfish present and provides long lasting protection. 

Insecticide powders can also be used to treat cardboard storage boxes.

Silverfish like humid conditions (>75%) so making sure the sub-floor is dry (if you have one). Improving drainage and ventilation (fans may be an option) will help. Using de-humidifiers in bedrooms and storage areas and / or regular use of air-conditioning during the warmer months (which reduces humidity). See addition steps to prevent a silverfish infestation (below).