How To Get Rid Of The Silverfish Inside Your Houston Home

Do you have creepy, crawly, silver-colored insects in your Houston home? If so, you're likely dealing with silverfish. These little pests can be difficult to get rid of, but don't worry; we're here to help. Texas Termite Terminators will go over some helpful silverfish facts: how to identify them, whether they're dangerous, how to prevent them, and how professional pest control in Houston can help you get rid of them for good.

What Is This Little Silver Bug?

Silverfish in Houston are small, wingless insects that get their name from their silvery-gray color and fish-like shape. Silverfish size can range from ¼ to ½ an inch long. They're common pests in Houston homes and can be found in any room, but they're especially fond of dark, humid places like bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements.

Silverfish are attracted to starchy foods, book bindings, paper products, glue, shampoos, and even your clothes. They're especially fond of fabrics like silk and cotton. If you have silverfish in your home, you may find them munching on your books, clothes, or even photographs. You may even find silverfish in your bathroom, where they're attracted to the moisture.

These small pests are nocturnal, so you're most likely to see them at night. If you turn on a light in a room where silverfish are present, they'll usually scurry away to hide.

How Dangerous Are Silverfish?

Despite their creepy-crawly appearance, silverfish are not dangerous to humans or pets. They don't carry diseases, and they don't bite. However, they can cause damage to your home and belongings.

Silverfish are known for eating paper products, which is why you might find holes in books, newspapers, or photographs. They also eat dead insects, so you might find them near your garbage can or in crawl spaces. In addition to damaging your belongings, silverfish can also trigger allergies in some people. If you have asthma or dust allergies, you might experience symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose when silverfish are present.

Other problems silverfish can cause include:

• Clogging drains
• Damaging insulation
• Eating through carpeting and clothing

While silverfish aren't dangerous to humans or pets, they can certainly be a nuisance. If you're dealing with these pests in your home, it's important to take action to get rid of them. The best way to get rid of silverfish in your Houston home is by contacting a professional in silverfish extermination like Texas Termite Terminators.

How To Prevent And Get Rid Of Silverfish

The best way to prevent silverfish in your home is to eliminate the moist conditions they love. Here are a few tips:

• Fix any leaks in your plumbing, and make sure your bathroom ventilation fan is working properly.
• Reduce humidity by using a dehumidifier, especially in basements and crawl spaces.
• Use caulk to seal any cracks or gaps around doors and windows.
• Keep food stored in airtight containers, and clean up any spills immediately.
• Don't let clutter build up. Silverfish love dark, hidden places where they can hide.
• Vacuum regularly, and wash linens and towels often.

By following these tips, you can make your home less inviting to silverfish and other pests. If you already have silverfish, though, it's best to call a professional pest control company. 

Professional Silverfish Control For Your Home

If you're dealing with silverfish in your Houston home, it's best to call in a professional like Texas Termite Terminators. With more than 30 years of experience in the industry, we have the knowledge and expertise to get rid of silverfish infestations for good. We'll also help you take steps to prevent them from coming back. Don't let silverfish take over your Houston home; call Texas Termite Terminators today to get started with a free inspection and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Houston.