Homeowners have been warned of an infestation to hit their properties this month as experts offer advice on how to beat the bugs
People are being urged to pour bleach and hot water into all their sinks to ward off a bug invasion this month. Experts have warned that British homes could see an unwelcome increase in silverfish as the weather turns colder and damper.
Despite their name, silverfish are tiny insects that are typically 12mm-19mm long. They enjoy devouring the sugar and starch from household items, such as books, photographs, documents and wallpaper.
They also don’t bite humans, but their presence can trigger a person’s allergies, particularly those intolerant to mites and other bugs, according to this study from German experts.
Silverfish thrive in damp and humid spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens all year round. Home specialists feared they will multiply in damp spots and leave behind yellow marks as evidence of their presence.
Heavy duty solutions include purchasing a dehumidifier and utilising lavender fragrances are successful methods to eliminate them. Andy Ellis, bathroom specialist at Vidalux, insisted Brits take immediate action as the bugs can be annoying to catch.
“The silver-scaled bugs are one of the most frustrating problems to deal with in bathrooms,” he said. “While they’re generally harmless, the critters don’t just appear once and never again, they like to come and go the moment they sniff out any dampness in a home.
“They also favour coming in houses during winter as many homes will have higher humidity levels from the heating being turned on and the cold from outside causing condensation on the windows.
“To help deal with the problem once and for all, we strongly advise tackling humidity by fixing vents and investing in dehumidifiers. It’s also worth hanging up the bathroom mats after every shower to prevent their appearance.”
How to eliminate silverfish
Sort out the ventilation – Silverfish are naturally attracted to spaces with elevated moisture levels, making it essential to ensure all air vents are functioning properly to minimise the likelihood of them turning up. Proper ventilation will help control bathroom steam, which can lead to increased humidity.
Deploy bleach and scalding water in basins – Don’t be surprised if you find silverfish lurking in your bathroom and kitchen basins, as they’re notorious for scaling the plumbing whilst hunting for moist spots throughout a property. Sanitise the basin with bleach and flush it through with scalding water to put them off.
Dry out bathroom mats – Consistently hang bathroom mats up to air dry. When they’re abandoned on the floor, they can establish a soggy environment that welcomes silverfish, reports Surrey Live.
Buy a dehumidifier – The quickest method to decrease atmospheric moisture is to purchase a dehumidifier. Place it in humidity-prone zones such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Use lavender oil – Apply some lavender oil onto cotton pads and place them in the sink, shower drain, and even the toilet to deter silverfish. The pests can’t stand the scent and will steer clear of areas where it’s present.
Clean potential hiding spots – Dark corners and behind radiators where damp towels are hung are potential hideouts for silverfish. It’s essential to clean these areas regularly so you can spot the problem as soon as possible. Yellow stains are also a sign of their presence.
Hire professionals – If home remedies don’t get rid of silverfish, it’s vital to bring in professionals to tackle the issue. This could suggest a potential leak in the pipes causing dampness beneath the house.
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