How To Get Rid Of Silverfish

Silverfish are small wingless insects that are covered in scales that look like a fish. While they are not dangerous to humans, they can become a nuisance if they get into your business premises in large numbers.
Their droppings contaminate food and they do like to chew certain materials, so they can cause considerable damage to stock and property. Here’s how to get rid of silverfish.
How do silverfish get in?
Silverfish can get into your business premises through gaps and cracks in foundations, windows, and doors. They can also be brought into the property inside of items where they’ve laid a nest, like cardboard boxes. Once in, they’ll hide out anywhere damp, humid, and dark, like kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
What do silverfish feed on?
Silverfish feed on dried foods, books and paper, fabrics like leather and carpet, and sugar. So if you have a food business, or you specialise in books or antiques, your premises is especially vulnerable.
Why you need to act fast to get rid of silverfish
Their droppings can contaminate food which could be costly (financially and legally) for food businesses, and they can also chew through lots of different types of materials and damage valuable stock.
How to get rid of silverfish from your business premises
• Remove potential sources of food: keep foods that they’re attracted to sealed in airtight containers so they can’t gain access. Once their food source has dried up, your premises will be less attractive to them.
• Keep your premises clean: Make sure that areas around skirting boards, windowsills, and doors are dusted, mopped, and vacuumed to get rid of debris and silverfish eggs.
• Repair any cracks or gaps in walls or around windows and doors with caulk.
• Reduce humidity in your premises: Silverfish thrive in humid environments, so fix any leaks in pipework and use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air.
What about DIY options, will they work?
Some DIY products like crawling insect sprays can help control silverfish numbers to an extent, but for serious infestations, you need professional help. Don’t forget that in a food production or service environment, using some types of chemicals is either banned or restricted, so be aware of what you’re using if you are in this sector.
How we can help
Professional pest control is the only way you can protect your business and get rid of silverfish for good. Our expert technicians will survey your premises and recommend a bespoke, targeted, and legally-compliant pest control solution that meets your needs. We’ll also give you expert advice on how to prevent further infestations.
Don’t put your business, customers, or reputation at risk, call in the experts.
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