Silverfish Surrey infestations are becoming more common as homes across the county get warmer and more humid. If you have spotted tiny, silvery insects darting across your bathroom floor, you are not alone. While silverfish do not bite or spread disease, they can damage paper, fabrics, and food packaging — and most people simply do not want insects in their home. This guide explains why they appear, how to prevent them, and when to call in a pest control professional.
What Are Silverfish?
Silverfish are small, wingless insects that have a shiny, metallic appearance and move quickly in a wriggling, fish-like way. They thrive in dark, damp, and undisturbed areas, often hiding behind skirting boards, under bathroom sinks, in airing cupboards, and inside kitchen cupboards. They feed on carbohydrates and proteins found in everyday items such as glue, wallpaper paste, book bindings, fabrics, cereals, and even shed skin cells.
Why Silverfish Love Bathrooms and Kitchens
Bathrooms and kitchens offer ideal conditions for silverfish. These spaces are warm, humid, and often provide access to moisture and food. In Surrey, many homes have older plumbing or poor ventilation, which increases the chances of damp pockets forming in hidden places. Seasonal temperature changes, especially in autumn and winter when heating is on but ventilation is reduced, often lead to a rise in sightings.
Common Causes of Silverfish in Surrey Homes
- Leaky pipes or taps providing constant moisture
- Poor ventilation in bathrooms, lofts, or kitchens
- Cracks or gaps in skirting boards, tiles, or pipework
- Stored paper, cardboard, or textiles in damp areas
- Warm temperatures encouraging insect breeding cycles
How to Prevent Silverfish
Reducing moisture and improving hygiene are the best ways to stop silverfish from settling in your property. Here are some practical steps:
- Repair leaking pipes and taps as soon as possible
- Improve ventilation with extractor fans or dehumidifiers
- Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices around pipes and tiles
- Store food in airtight containers and keep surfaces crumb-free
- Reduce paper and cardboard clutter in bathrooms, lofts, and kitchens
- Vacuum skirting boards, floor edges, and hidden corners regularly
When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service
Occasional sightings of silverfish can often be controlled with improved housekeeping. However, if you keep seeing these insects despite taking action, the problem may be more widespread. A professional survey can confirm the scale of the issue and identify other pests that thrive in similar conditions. Go2 Pest Control offers house insect control solutions tailored to homes across Surrey. We use safe, effective treatments to remove silverfish and prevent them from returning.
Protecting Your Home From Future Infestations
Pest prevention works best when combined with ongoing maintenance. Keep humidity under control, ventilate bathrooms after showers, and check cupboards and storage areas periodically. If you suspect a bigger problem or simply want peace of mind, arrange a local inspection today. Visit our contact page to book a consultation with a trained technician.
Helpful resource: You can learn more about silverfish and other household pests by visiting the British Pest Control Association’s silverfish advice page.