LEARN ABOUT PESTS / GUIDES
Silverfish are small, wingless insects with tapering bodies. They occur in damp, dark, sheltered places. Start by checking moisture sources and hiding places to reduce their numbers.
Last updated: 7 October 2026
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Silverfish do not bite people and are not known to be significant disease carriers. The main concern is damage to paper products and some dry foods under suitable conditions. Seeing one insect does not imply a serious health hazard.
Their wingless bodies, long antennae and three slender tail appendages are distinctive. They move quickly and may be seen only briefly; finding an insect in a bathroom alone is not enough to identify it.
They can establish themselves where moisture and shelter are available. Bookbinding glue, starchy materials and some dry foods can provide food. Check paper for surface damage or irregular marks too.
Leaks, condensation and poor ventilation can create a suitable habitat. Addressing the moisture source matters for lasting control.
Piles of cardboard and paper can provide shelter. Reduce build-up, especially in damp stores, and keep valuable books dry.
Address leaks and condensation; improve ventilation in bathrooms and storage areas.
Check around pipes and cracks to reduce hiding places.
Reduce unnecessary cardboard and paper; protect books from damp.
Store dry foods in sealed containers and clear crumbs from cupboards and floors.
Check that the label explicitly lists silverfish. A general reference to “pests” does not establish suitability for this target.
For this target, choose only surfaces permitted by the label. Do not treat people, animals, food or textiles that directly contact the skin as application areas.
Compare the target-specific application method and any stated duration. Do not transfer instructions between products or assume unverified durations.
Especially when buying online, check the biocidal authorisation number and date, active ingredient and instructions on the back label.
Choose a silverfish solution according to the target and application area.
Pest-control products from our company’s different brands are listed together by solution type to help you compare options for your needs.
Application to authorised surfaces where the target occurs.
Killing
CONTROL WITH RESIDUAL EFFECT
Apply to surfaces permitted by the label.
EXPLORE PRODUCT BUYA silver, wingless body and three tail appendages suggest silverfish. Colour and location alone do not provide a certain identification.
They do not bite people and are not known to be significant disease vectors. Damage to paper products and some dry foods is the greater concern.
Damp, dark hiding places and accessible food can help them establish themselves. Check leaks and moisture first.
They may feed on book bindings, adhesives, starchy paper products and some dry foods. Keep storage areas clean and dry.
Killing Max Sprey is shown for this pest on surfaces permitted by its label. Do not spray food, books or items people handle indiscriminately.