You’re brushing your teeth, you’re half-awake, and then something darty and creepy creeps across your bathroom floor as if it owns it. Gross. Been there. If you see these little guys often, you may have a silverfish problem. Yep — those shiny, squirmy bugs that kind of look like a fish mixed with a bug (because that’s what they are).

So what does it mean when you see silverfish in the home, how do you identify them, why are they moving in, and most importantly, how do you get them out for good?

So What Are Silverfish Exactly?
Silverfish are tiny wingless insects that have existed for millions of years. Literally. These are prehistoric bugs. They’re about 1½ inches long (sometimes a little smaller or larger), flat, carrot-shaped at the end, with silvery scales on both sides. They have long antennae and move in this creepy, wiggly, snake-like motion. If you have ever seen one, you understand what I mean.

And no, they neither fly nor bite. But they aren’t harmless either.

Why You’ve Got Silverfish in Your Home
In case you see silverfish in your house — in the bathroom, basement, kitchen, or laundry room — it means your house is providing them with everything they need. Silverfish live in:High humidity: They love damp environments.
Darkness: You will not find them sunbathing.
Access to starchy/sugary material: Paper, glue, cardboard, fabric, and crumbs.

That’s right. These bugs love carbs. They’ll eat wallpaper glue, the bindings of your favorite book, old newspapers, and dandruff (yes, really).

Are Silverfish Harmful?