Silverfish in Bathrooms and Kitchens: How to Eliminate Them
If you've ever turned on the bathroom light at night and seen a tiny, silver bug dart across the floor in your house, you're not alone. Silverfish in bathrooms and kitchens is common. These rooms are usually warm, humid, and full of nooks and crannies and are ideal conditions for silverfish to hide, breed, and feed. We’ll show you how to quickly identify silverfish in house hotspots, potential silverfish habitats in these rooms and how to eliminate silverfish with proven techniques.
Why Bathrooms and Kitchens Attract Silverfish
Silverfish thrive in damp, dark environments where they have access to moisture and food sources. Bathrooms and kitchens offer all of the following:
- High humidity from showers, baths, or cooking
- Leaky faucets and pipes creating constant moisture
- Food sources such as paper, glue, hair, and crumbs
- Plenty of hiding spots in cabinets, behind appliances, and under sinks
Signs of Silverfish in Bathrooms and Kitchens
- Small, fast-moving silver bugs in corners or drains
- Yellowish stains on bathroom paper goods or under sinks
- Shed skins or droppings (tiny black dots)
- Chewed edges on wallpaper, toilet paper, or food packages
If you notice one or more of these signs, it's time to take action.
Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminate Silverfish
1. Reduce Humidity
- Use an exhaust fan or open windows during and after showers
- Install a small dehumidifier if needed
- Fix any leaky pipes, toilets, or faucets
2. Clean Thoroughly
- Wipe down surfaces and remove crumbs and food residue
- Vacuum under cabinets, appliances, and around baseboards
- Declutter cabinets and drawers. Silverfish love hiding in stored paper or plastic bags
3. Seal Entry Points
- Seal cracks along baseboards, tile, or plumbing with caulk
- Install mesh screens over bathroom and kitchen vents
- Repair broken tiles or loose grout
4. Use Natural Repellents
- Spray diluted essential oils like lavender or citrus around baseboards
- Leave bay leaves or whole cloves in drawers and under sinks
- Place citrus peels or cedar blocks in problem areas
5. Set Traps
- Place sticky traps near toilets, under sinks, and behind trash bins
- Use DIY jar traps baited with oats and wrapped in masking tape
- Replace traps every few days until activity stops
Tips for Long-Term Prevention
- Keep bathrooms and kitchens dry and well-ventilated
- Use airtight containers for food and dry goods
- Declutter and clean under sinks regularly
- Check plumbing for condensation or leaks twice a year
- Monitor with traps every few months, especially in humid seasons
Consistency is key—silverfish may return if conditions stay favorable.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried DIY methods and silverfish are still active, a pest control specialist can help. Professional exterminators can:
- Identify hidden infestation zones behind walls or floors
- Apply targeted treatments that are safe for kitchens and bathrooms
- Provide advice on long-term moisture control and prevention
They’re especially helpful if silverfish are damaging wallpaper, flooring, or stored food items.
Silverfish may be common in bathrooms and kitchens, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. By reducing moisture, cleaning thoroughly, sealing gaps, and using traps or repellents, you can take control of the situation. These steps not only eliminate silverfish but also make your home cleaner and healthier overall.
Read more about how to prevent silverfish from coming back into your house. Learn the best ways to keep your home silverfish-free year-round!