Silverfish in the House: Why They Appear and What They Eat

Silverfish are silvery, fast-moving insects that dart out of sight when disturbed. They are common in damp Bangalore homes, especially during the monsoon.

The short answer

Silverfish appear where it is humid, dark and quiet, and they feed on starches and sugars such as paper, book glue, wallpaper paste, cardboard, fabrics like cotton and silk, and food crumbs. They do not bite, but they damage books, documents and clothes. Reduce humidity, store paper and clothes in sealed containers, clean crumbs, repair leaks and seal cracks. Persistent infestations may need professional treatment.

Why they appear

• High humidity and damp corners.
• Cracks and gaps for hiding.
• Stored paper, cardboard and fabrics.
• Bathrooms, kitchens and basements.

What they eat

• Paper, glue, book bindings and wallpaper.
• Cotton, linen, silk and starched fabrics.
• Flour, cereals and other starchy food.

How to deal with them

1. Reduce humidity with ventilation and dehumidifiers.
2. Fix leaks and dry damp areas.
3. Store books, papers and clothes in sealed containers.
4. Clean crumbs and remove cardboard clutter.
5. Seal cracks and gaps.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Are silverfish harmful?

Not to health, but they damage belongings.

Why do I see them at night?

They are nocturnal.

Do they come from drains?

They can enter from damp areas.

Are they a sign of dirt?

More a sign of damp.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on silverfish control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full silverfish control guide for Bangalore.