CausesLow risk
Why Do I Have Silverfish?
Quick answer
Silverfish thrive in humid, undisturbed places with starchy food: roof voids, wardrobes, bookshelves, bathrooms and cardboard storage. Seeing them usually points to high humidity and stored paper, fabrics or boxes rather than poor cleanliness. They are harmless to health, but they can damage books, photos, wallpaper and clothing.
Why this happens
Silverfish lose moisture easily, so they seek humid spaces. Coastal and subtropical climates suit them.
They feed on starch and cellulose, including book glue, paper, cardboard and some fabrics, and can survive for long periods without food.
What you may be seeing
- Silverfish in baths, sinks and wardrobes.
- Irregular holes or grazing on paper and fabric.
- Yellowish stains and tiny droppings.
What you can do
- Improve ventilation and use dehumidifiers in problem areas.
- Move papers, photos and clothing into sealed plastic containers.
- Declutter and reduce cardboard storage.
- Vacuum cupboards, shelves and skirting boards regularly.
When professional help may be needed
If silverfish are dropping from ceilings, a roof-void treatment may be recommended alongside humidity control.
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Local information
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Sources & further reading
- Australian Museum — insects and spiders — Australian Museum
- CSIRO — insect and pest research — CSIRO
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