When it comes to the cleanliness and hygiene of our homes, a common challenge is the presence of small unwanted visitors, particularly silverfish. Also known as silverfish, these insects often find refuge in our bathrooms, attracted by moisture and warmth. Although harmless to health, their presence can be unpleasant. Fortunately, there are effective and natural methods to repel them while pleasantly scenting your bathroom.
What does a silverfish look like?
The silverfish, or silver lepisma, is a small insect measuring approximately 7 to 10 mm. It is recognizable by its silvery color, filamentous antennae, and three characteristic bristles at the end of its abdomen. These insects are not harmful to humans or pets, but they are often considered undesirable due to their presence in homes, especially in humid areas such as bathrooms.
How do silverfish end up inside the house?
These insects are present in almost all latitudes, except in extreme regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic. Native to the tropics, they have spread worldwide. In our homes, they are attracted to food residues, organic matter (such as shed skin, paper, or fabric), and warm, humid places like bathrooms.
Home remedies against silverfish
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Use of repellent fragrances
Silverfish dislike certain smells, including lavender, sage, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, lemon juice, and some spicy spices. Applications:
- Place lavender in small sachets and put them in the cabinets.
- Use lemon juice to wipe tiled surfaces.
- Keep spices like cinnamon or rosemary in cabinets or scatter them in cracks.
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Concentrated solution with lemon juice and lavender oil
Ingredients:
- Lemon
- Water
- Lavender oil
How to proceed?
- Squeeze the juice from a lemon to obtain fresh juice.
- Mix about 200 ml of water with lemon juice.
- Add about 10 drops of lavender oil to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Spray the mixture in all corners of the room where silverfish have been observed.
- Note that this product will not kill the insects but will effectively repel them with its scent.
Safety and well-being
This method is safe and natural, suitable even in the presence of young children or pets. It offers a dual functionality: repelling silverfish and delicately scenting the bathroom.
Preventive strategy against silverfish
To prevent the appearance of these insects, it is essential to maintain rigorous cleanliness and reduce humidity. Here are some preventive tips:
- Seal cracks
- Limit the use of cosmetic products
- Do laundry regularly
- Use products like vinegar during cleaning.
