You may have heard of borax as an efficient stain remover; however, did you know that chemically borax is the salt of boric acid and is equally effective at eliminating silverfish?

Borax is highly toxic for silverfish, the issue is how to make them consume it.

The solution is to mix borax with powdered white sugar (confectioner’s sugar is good) and place it in an area convenient for them.

Be careful however if you have any pets or babies in the house.

Never place this mixture in their sight or where they can reach it, we do not want any accidents.

How to do it:

Just mix 3 tablespoons of borax and 3 tablespoons of powdered white sugar in a small bowl until evenly combined.

Place in areas that are prone to silverfish infestation.

They will eat and say goodbye world. Saturate the same areas for at least a week or until all signs of silverfish are no more.

5. Set A DIY Trap #1

Get an empty glass jar and “yes it must be glass”  and wrap some sticky tape around the outside so that it has some grip for the silverfish to crawl up.

Place some bait on the inside of the jar such as glue, paper, food- anything they eat.

Place the jar in an area that you know they will be in and leave overnight.

Let it stand upright. They will find themselves on the inside trying to get the food, only to find that they cannot walk up the slippery glass surface. Silent thieves caught!

Now take that jar and do as you wish!

6. DIY Trap#2

This one is too easy! Get some newspaper and roll it up. Moisten it with water, they will love it that way.

Place it in an area where the Silverfish gathers.

Leave it overnight. In the morning just scrape it all up and do as you wish!

Some people burn the bundle. But you may do as you wish. It’s your catch- and your silverfish!

7. Insect Starvation Plan #1

Place all foods in containers that are impossible for the insects to penetrate. Glass jars and see-through storage bins will do just fine. Just ensure that all the food is kept tightly covered and properly stored.

8. Insect Starvation Plan #2

Without this plan, the first one is totally useless!

Clean, everything and everywhere! This may sound a bit tiring and it may be in the initial stage of the plan.

But please note that this is the first and best trick to keep out any insect from your home.

Once the food is nowhere to be found, the insects have no interest in the area.

Most insects find themselves in homes because of the wonderful scent of food and the tiny food particles that we have no interest in.

In this case, we have to pay attention to every spill – from the floors, counters, tables, ovens, microwaves, and stovetops, and even in the food storage areas!

All food spills should be totally cleaned up. Then sanitize the area to kill microorganisms and food scents.

With these last two tips, you will be getting rid of more than just silverfish! You will make your home an insect-free environment over time.

Expert Pest Control Tips

We reached out to a certified pest control professional for insight. Here’s what they recommend:

“Silverfish are survivors. The key is moisture control. Most infestations we see are due to poor ventilation in bathrooms or overstuffed basements. Remove their food sources, and they’ll move on—or die off.”
— Michael R., Certified Pest Technician, EcoBug Solutions

Natural vs. Chemical Methods: Which is Better?

If you have pets, children, or a sensitive household, natural methods are the safer choice.

Long-Term Prevention Tips

• Store pantry items in airtight glass or plastic containers

• Switch from cardboard boxes to sealed plastic bins

• Keep stored clothes dry and avoid stacking items on the floor

• Inspect your home regularly for new cracks or leaks

• Use moisture absorbers in closets and storage areas

• Keep paper and fabric storage to a minimum

• Clean out bookshelves and linen closets quarterly

Real-Life Case Scenario

Angela from Ohio started seeing small holes in her stored sweaters and books. After a deep clean and applying essential oil sprays along her baseboards, she also added cedar blocks to all her closets and switched to plastic bins. Within three weeks, she noticed a sharp drop in sightings—and hasn’t seen one in over 4 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where does Silverfish come from?
A: Silverfish can sometimes enter homes through small cracks, gaps, or crevices in walls, floors, and foundations. They can also be introduced through infested books, cardboard boxes, or second-hand furniture. These pests are drawn to damp and humid environments, making poorly ventilated spaces the perfect breeding grounds for them. If you suspect a silverfish infestation, it is important to seal entry points and maintain proper humidity control.

Q: Are silverfish dangerous to my health?
A: Not directly. They don’t bite or transmit disease, but they can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Q: Can silverfish live in beds?
A: Rarely. While they may wander onto bedding if nearby conditions are humid, they don’t prefer fabric as a primary habitat.

Q: How long does it take to get rid of them?
A: Mild infestations may take 2–4 weeks to resolve naturally. Larger infestations require 1–2 months of consistent effort.

Q: Do natural remedies really work?
A: Yes, but consistency is key. Natural methods often work slower than chemicals but offer safer and longer-term results.

Final Thoughts

Silverfish might be elusive, but they’re not invincible. With the right natural strategies—cleaning, drying, sealing, and deterring—you can eliminate them without exposing your home to toxic sprays. Prevention is your greatest weapon, and consistency is your best friend.

Keep your home dry, your storage tight, and your corners clean—and the silverfish will have nowhere to hide.

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