How can I get rid of silverfish in a closet?

Rainy
by Rainy

I have tried diatomaceous earth sprinkled everywhere and little paper packets made especially for silverfish control. I’ve tried borax powder also. I’m st my wits end. Help!

  7 answers
  • Patty Patty on Mar 21, 2019

    Bay leaves are a good detearent.

    • Rainy Rainy on Mar 21, 2019

      I have also tried this. Cloves also. I just hate to have an exterminator because of my two kitties. Thank you for replying.

  • Hi Rainy,


    Have you tried any essential oils yet. I just read online that they do not like cinnamon or tea tree. It also says they like dark places, maybe you could add an adhesive battery light. May be worth trying for $7.50.


    Good luck! Lauren - The Little Lake Cottage

    • Rainy Rainy on Mar 21, 2019

      i could try leaving the bright closet light on perhaps, although, because it is a walk in closet with a built in dresser, light can’t get everywhere there. Thanks for replying.

  • Kelli L. Milligan Kelli L. Milligan on Mar 21, 2019

    Do you know what draws them?

    • Rainy Rainy on Mar 21, 2019

      I know they like paper and clothes. I don’t have paper in there, but I sure do have clothes. 😊

  • Wanda Wanda on Mar 21, 2019

    Put catnip in corners. Also put it in boxes you may have pictures, books or papers stored in. You won’t be bothered with them anymore. Just refresh every so often.

    • See 3 previous
    • Lynn Sorrell Lynn Sorrell on Mar 21, 2019

      tie or bungee cord the doors shut so they do not get poisoned the baits are sweetened to draw bugs

  • Amanda Amanda on Mar 21, 2019

    HI Rainy. We used to have to put out a bomb for them in our attic. They worked but I would leave the house while doing it.

    • Rainy Rainy on Mar 21, 2019

      I was hoping not to have to do that. Taking the kitties out for hours is not easy. I will try the wet newspaper bait as a last resort, but I’m afraid it’s going to take a professional.

  • Lynn Sorrell Lynn Sorrell on Mar 21, 2019

    100%pure essential oil ;Cedar oil or Lavender oil straight not mixed with water, wipe down closets walls baseboards floors then add cedar chips to floors around baseboards, in clothing,drawers, cat beds,shoes,towels,books, linens etc.. these will not hurt your cats I have lots of animals and use these on back porch where my ferals lay to help with mosquitos,scorpions,cockroaches just don't let them in wet oil cause it's really strong probably won't be good to sniff

  • Rainy Rainy on Mar 22, 2019

    I have tried the cedar chips but not the oils. If the wet paper rolls do not work, I will try some of these suggestions, but I will use an exterminator as a last resort. Thank you everyone. This site has been a great experience!