How to get rid of silverfish from your home and clothes in Singapore
Silverfish do not bite humans nor animals, but they may carry germs and can cause infestation if you do not treat the problem.
We covered plaster bagworm the last time, and now we will divert your attention to silverfish, another pest that can infest a home and cause allergies.
What is silverfish?
Silverfish are insects with a fish-like appearance and can live up to two to three years. They avoid light but do well in surroundings with high humidity between 75 per cent and 95 per cent. They can be found in basements, old books, showers, sinks and kitchen. Typically, a female silverfish lays less than 100 eggs in her lifetime, but when she does, her eggs take between two weeks to two months to hatch.
Are silverfish harmful?
Silverfish do not bite humans nor animals, but they may carry germs and can cause infestation if you do not treat the problem. Silverfish are able to digest cellulose because their bodies can produce cellulase. Because of this trait, they are able to digest papers, plaster in walls, tapestries, photos, clothing, sugar, hair and even dandruff.
Should you kill silverfish?
Silverfish are harmless to us humans, but they have a tendency to destroy a lot of our personal belongings, so it is better to get rid of them.
READ:
How to reduce high humidity from your home in Singapore
How to get rid of plaster bagworms from your home in Singapore
How to remove mould from grain leather bags and shoes properly
The most popular personal care brands in Singapore
How to remove mould from your tiles and walls in Singapore
How do I get rid of silverfish?
1. First, locate where they are
As silverfish tend to avoid light, check inside your drawers, bookshelves and more for signs of activity.
2. Set up traps
Silverfish are runners so if you manage to spot them and squish them on the spot, congrats, you've managed to get rid of one but there may be more lurking around.
Use sticky tapes: Place them inside your drawers or on top of shelves, but keep them away from children and pets.
Use essential oils: Essential oils are another safe way to get rid of silverfish from your home in Singapore. Mix several drops of cedar oil or lavender oil with water in a spray bottle and spray onto the problem areas. Or you can place cinnamon sticks around the house.
3. Keep your home clean from dust
Silverfish love dust and debris, so be sure to keep your home clean by vacuuming the floors and ceilings. Keep books and magazines away and you'll be able to prevent a silverfish infestation. Keep your food stored in airtight containers as well.
