Firebrats and Silverfish

Pest control for silverfish and firebrats is similar to cockroach control, since they both like cracks and crevices – and don’t like light. Clearing out and cleaning bookshelves and closets before a treatment is a good idea, since these are areas with abundant food supplies for the bristletails, and will need a thorough treatment. Both dusts and sprays are effective in cracks and voids. In addition, a good pesticide barrier around the outside of your home is important to keep silverfish and firebrats from getting inside. Spot treatments can be done outside if needed, such as under shingles, or around woodpiles.

Things you can do to help:

Keeping an eye on stored paper and cloth products is a good way to see if you have any of these pests. Look for discolorations, irregular holes, insect parts, or even the insects themselves. Be sure to get rid of any excess papers or cartons, especially those with glue. Since they like moisture, correcting moisture problems or leaky plumbing will discourage them from taking up residence in your home. Silica gel can be used in moist areas to dry them out. When practical, eliminating cracks and crevices inside reduces the number of places they can live. This can be done by various means such as caulking, painting, or repairing loose trim. Vacuuming, especially cracks and crevices around bookshelves is helpful. If economically feasible, dehumidifying a room will make it unfavorable to bristletails – and may be a good idea in places like libraries, anyway. Small items that are suspected to be infested can always be carefully frozen or microwaved to kill any pests hiding in them.