Silverfish

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Why You’re Seeing Silverfish in Late Summer

Silverfish icon

Why You’re Seeing Silverfish in Late Summer

If you’ve noticed small, fast-moving silver insects in your bathroom, laundry or wardrobes recently, you’re not alone. 


Late summer in NSW brings warmth and humidity — the exact conditions silverfish rely on to survive and reproduce. 


As summer winds down, it’s common for homeowners to notice them more frequently indoors. 

What Are Silverfish? 

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Silverfish are small, wingless insects with a silvery-grey appearance and quick, darting movements. 


They prefer: 

  • Dark spaces
  • High humidity
  • Undisturbed storage areas
  • Gaps behind skirting boards
  • Roof voids and subfloors 


They’re nocturnal, which means you may only see them occasionally — often when turning on a bathroom light at night.

Are Silverfish Harmful?

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Silverfish don’t bite and they aren’t known to spread disease. 


However, they can cause gradual damage over time. 


They feed on materials containing starches and sugars, including: 

  • Books and important paperwork
  • Wallpaper glue
  • Cardboard boxes
  • Clothing (especially cotton, linen and silk)
  • Pantry goods 


While small numbers may seem harmless, larger populations can indicate excess moisture or hidden harbourage areas within the home. 

Why Late Summer Is Peak Season 

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Silverfish depend on moisture. 



After weeks of humidity, summer storms and condensation build-up, homes often contain ideal conditions — especially in: 

  • Bathrooms and laundries
  • Roof cavities
  • Subfloors
  • Poorly ventilated wardrobes 


As temperatures begin shifting toward autumn, silverfish often remain indoors where conditions are more stable.

How to Reduce Silverfish Around Your Home

You can lower the likelihood of silverfish by addressing the conditions they rely on. 


1. Reduce Moisture 
Fix leaking taps, improve ventilation and ensure good airflow in damp areas.


2. Improve Storage 

Avoid storing paper or clothing in cardboard boxes. Use sealed plastic containers instead. 


3. Seal Gaps 

Close small cracks around skirting boards, windows and pipes where they may hide. 


4. Declutter 

Reduce undisturbed areas where silverfish can harbour.

Often, small environmental adjustments make a noticeable difference. 



When to Seek Advice

If silverfish continue appearing despite preventative steps, it may indicate a larger hidden population or underlying moisture issue. 


Professional pest management can help identify: 

  • Hidden harbourage areas
  • Moisture sources
  • Entry points
  • Appropriate treatment options 


At Mr Pesty, we focus on preventative, considered pest management — not just surface spraying. Our goal is to address the conditions pests rely on and help maintain long-term protection for your home. 

Heading Into Autumn