Why Do Silverfish Love Paper?

If you’ve ever pulled a book off the shelf or opened a box in your attic and found mysterious holes, yellow stains, or shed skins, silverfish might be the culprit. Silverfish love to eat paper, cardboard, and books. We’ll explain why silverfish are drawn to these materials and how to protect your belongings from their sneaky damage.

Why Silverfish Are Attracted to Paper

Silverfish feed on starches, sugars, and proteins, all of which can be found in paper products. Paper made from wood pulp contains cellulose, a starchy plant material that silverfish can digest. They’re also attracted to:

• Glue or paste used in book bindings
• Starch-based coatings on cardboard
• Older papers, which tend to have more organic materials

This means books, magazines, photo albums, and even wallpaper are all potential food sources.

Signs of Silverfish Damage to Paper and Books

• Tiny holes or scrapes on pages or covers
• Yellowish stains or trails left behind
• Shed skins or pepper-like droppings between pages
• Curled or brittle page corners

Damage may be subtle at first but can worsen over time, especially in stored or rarely used collections.

Where the Damage Happens

Silverfish love undisturbed, dark, and humid places. Some common hotspots include:

• Bookshelves and filing cabinets
• Attics and basements
• Cardboard boxes stored in closets or garages
• Drawers or containers with old documents

The more cluttered and humid the space, the more likely silverfish will set up shop.

How to Protect Paper Items from Silverfish

1. Store in Plastic Containers

• Use airtight plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes
• Label and organize by category to reduce rummaging

2. Keep Books on Open, Clean Shelves

• Dust regularly to reduce hiding spots
• Use shelves made from metal or sealed wood

3. Use Dehumidifiers

• Maintain indoor humidity below 50%
• Use in basements, closets, and storage areas

4. Avoid Storing Paper Items on the Floor

• Elevate boxes and books off damp surfaces
• Use shelving units or raised platforms

5. Add Natural Repellents

• Use sachets of lavender, bay leaves, or cedar chips
• Replace every 1–2 months for ongoing protection

Silverfish and Valuable Collections

If you collect books, stamps, or historical papers, extra precautions are needed:

• Keep items in climate-controlled rooms
• Use archival-safe sleeves or covers
• Inspect collections regularly for signs of damage
• Avoid storing collectibles in cardboard or paper folders

Even rare, irreplaceable items can be protected with proper care and vigilance.

Should You Use Insecticides?

Insecticides are best used as a last resort or for severe infestations. If you choose to use sprays:

• Choose products labeled safe for indoor and book storage use
• Follow all label directions and avoid direct contact with paper
• Ventilate areas well after application

For long-term protection, focus on humidity control, traps, and good storage practices.

Silverfish love to eat paper, cardboard, and books because of the starches and sugars they contain. But with smart storage, lower humidity, and a few natural silverfish traps, you can protect your collections and stop silverfish in their tracks. Don’t wait for damage to show, prevention is the best defense.

Read our other blog posts if you're curious where in the world silverfish are most commonly found and why some homes are more prone to infestations than others.