Regular pests like flies, mice, and other similar pests are bad enough when they invade. When uncommon pests like silverfish invade Baltimore homes, it’s outright annoying. This pest is so-named thanks to its fish-like shape movement along with its metallic appearance. Like fish, they prefer moist environments.
Besides their fish-like scales, silverfish also lack wings and get around by running at impressive speeds. The good news is that silverfish are fairly harmless. However, they invade in large numbers and are known to cause issues that are less than desirable to experience.
Silverfish are extremely difficult to get rid of thanks to the size of the infestation, which already makes prevention a key element in remaining pest-free. Also, they’re known to cause allergic reactions and even attract other pests such as carpet beetles. The most troublesome thing about this pest is the potential damage to personal items Baltimore homeowners may experience. They chew into paper, clothing, and upholstery if left unchecked for a long period of time.
Attraction and Prevention
For starters, silverfish are capable of thriving in nearly any kind of climate, which makes any home or place of business a potential target. However, some factors can make your home more attractive than others. These attractant factors include:
- Dark And Damp: In fairness, basements and attics are known to be naturally darker than other rooms. However, when they’re also damp, this creates a perfect breeding ground for silverfish.
- Paper Storage: Most people have important documents they need to keep for one reason or another. Silverfish are extremely attracted to paper, which means the more you store, the more attractive your Baltimore home looks.
- Damp Clothing: They’ll also eat clothing, especially if they’re damp. Unattended clothing in the laundry room or a bag somewhere on the premises acts as a beacon for silverfish.
Now that you have a better idea of the attraction factors, let’s take a look at some ways to prevent a silverfish infestation. Consider taking the following steps:
- Careful Inspection: While silverfish may like being inside of your boxes, that doesn’t mean they deserve to stay. Take the time to inspect all boxes before bringing them inside to remain protected. This is especially necessary if damp or full of paper.
- Perform Repairs: To combat dark and damp rooms, you need to first address any needed repairs. No amount of drying out a room will make a difference if the pipe is still leaking. Take care of this problem now to prevent future problems.
- Dehumidify: The more humid your home, the more attractive your house is to silverfish. Investing in a dehumidifier is a great way to dry out your home and prevent this pest as well as others from wanting to stick around.
- Seal Entry Points: They need to get inside somehow, which is usually through small cracks and holes. The best way to prevent any pest infestation is to seal these entry points with silicone caulk.
- Proper Storage: Since they like to get into your things, the best way to prevent them is to make it impossible for them to succeed. Use metal filing cabinets for your important documents. Sealed containers for food and properly stored clothing is also beneficial.
Preventing Silverfish with Pest Czar
With silverfish or any other pest, it doesn’t matter if the infestation is current or hasn’t occurred yet. What matters are the steps you take to remain protected in your Baltimore home. Our team at Pest Czar will work with you to determine the pest management plan that’s right for your needs.
Do you need silverfish prevention services? Then give the experts at Pest Czar a call to speak with one of our agents about our professional silverfish control options or fill out our online form to schedule your free quote.