The Best Silverfish Traps: DIY and Store-Bought Options
When it comes to catching silverfish, traps are one of the most effective tools. If you're ready to get creative, these are great options to try to save money initially instead of calling a pest control company. Whether you want a quick DIY solution or a professional-grade product, this guide will show you the best silverfish traps you can use right now. We’ll cover homemade traps you can build with items around the house, and compare top store-bought options that are ready to use.
No word yet if Venus Fly traps are a possible solution, please let us know if you've tried this method!
Why Use Traps for Silverfish?
- Traps help monitor and reduce populations
- They work without harsh chemicals or sprays
- They’re simple, affordable, and safe for indoor use
- Great for targeting specific areas where silverfish hide
Used correctly, traps can help you spot an infestation early and make your other pest control methods more effective.
Top 5 DIY Silverfish Traps
1. Mason Jar Trap
What You Need: A glass jar, masking tape, and dry oats or flour.
- Wrap masking tape around the outside of the jar (so silverfish can climb)
- Place oats or flour inside
- Silverfish fall in but can’t climb out of the slippery glass
2. Sticky Tape Trap
What You Need: Double-sided tape and index cards
- Stick tape to cards or cardboard squares
- Place near walls, under sinks, or in closets
- Silverfish get stuck while searching for food or moisture
3. Newspaper Trap
What You Need: Old newspaper and a rubber band
- Roll up a slightly damp newspaper and secure with a band
- Leave it overnight where silverfish are active
- In the morning, dispose of the paper without unrolling
4. Cardboard and Honey Trap
What You Need: Cardboard strips and a dab of honey
- Place honey on cardboard and leave near baseboards
- Honey attracts and traps silverfish
5. Baking Soda and Sugar Trap
What You Need: Baking soda, sugar, and a shallow lid
- Mix equal parts sugar and baking soda
- Place in lids under sinks, in closets, or behind furniture
- Ingesting the mix dehydrates and kills silverfish
Top Store-Bought Silverfish Traps
1. Catchmaster 72MAX Pest Traps
- Non-toxic and easy to use
- Can be folded into boxes or laid flat
- Captures silverfish, spiders, roaches, and more
2. Dekko Silverfish Packs
- Contains boric acid to kill silverfish
- Designed specifically for long-term use
- Safe for use in kitchens, bathrooms, closets, and storage areas
3. TERRO T3206SR Non-Toxic Traps
- Pet- and child-safe sticky traps
- Attracts and traps silverfish and firebrats
- Odourless and easy to hide
4. Hot Shot No-Pest Strips
- Slow-release pesticide in a hanging strip
- Effective in attics, garages, and storage units
- Use with caution and follow safety guidelines
Where to Place Silverfish Traps
- Behind toilets and under sinks
- Along baseboards and behind furniture
- Inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets
- In closets, bookshelves, or storage boxes
- In the basement or attic near dark corners
Silverfish often follow walls, so placing traps along their travel paths increases effectiveness.
Tips for Trap Success
- Use multiple traps in different areas
- Check and replace traps regularly
- Clean and vacuum areas before placing traps
- Combine traps with dehumidifiers and sealing cracks for best results
Consistency and placement are key to catching silverfish efficiently.
Traps are a practical and effective way to monitor and kill silverfish in your home. Whether you build your own or buy pre-made products, the right trap in the right spot can make a big difference. Combine traps with preventative measures like reducing moisture and clutter for a long-term silverfish-free space.
Take a closer look at how to use borax for silverfish control. It’s one of the most reliable DIY methods to get rid of silverfish.