If I See One Silverfish, Do I Have An Infestation?

Silverfish are nocturnal insects, meaning they’re only active during the night. They live in moist and dark places, such as your basement.

However, this doesn’t mean that they’re necessarily a threat. If they don’t sting, they’re harmless. These bugs are also not known to carry diseases.

As a result, if you see one silverfish, there’s no guarantee that you’re dealing with an infestation. But they are a common pest in some parts of the country.

Besides being a bit annoying, silverfish can cause damage to your household items. They like to eat papers, cardboard, and starchy foods. So you might notice some holes in your books or wallpaper.

Aside from damaging your things, they can also be a major allergen. The recombinant allergen tropomyosin can combine with other allergens in your house, making you more susceptible to an allergy attack.

The best way to avoid a silverfish infestation is to change your environment. This may involve moving into a new home. Make sure you pack everything in plastic containers to prevent infestations.

Another way to prevent silverfish is to use essential oils. Several essential oils repel them, such as lemon and lavender. You can apply these oils to your walls and floors to avoid future infestations.

One of the earliest signs of a silverfish infestation is the presence of yellow spots on paper or clothing. The yellow spots are dust left behind when the silverfish molts.

In addition, you might see poop. Although it might not look very pretty, it’s a sign of a silverfish’s activity.