Moisture in autumn: Ideal for silverfish and paperfish – what you can do

October 30, 2025
Feuchtigkeit im Herbst: Ideal für Silber- und Papierfischchen – was du tun kannst
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When autumn arrives, fish insects become active

Falling outdoor temperatures, closed windows, and running heaters lead to a typical autumn problem: too high indoor humidity.
While we make ourselves comfortable, silverfish and paperfish take advantage of these conditions to multiply in apartments, offices, and storage rooms.

Both species love warm, humid, and dark areas – and find ideal living conditions in bathrooms, kitchens, or storage rooms.


Silverfish or paper silverfish – what is the difference?

Feature

Silverfish

Paper silverfish

Habitat

humid, warm (bathroom, basement)

dry, warm (living rooms, offices)

Food

Sugar, skin flakes

Paper, wallpaper, glue

Color

silvery shiny

grayish to matte

Damage pattern

harmless

Material damage to paper and books

Activity

nocturnal

nocturnal

Silverfish are usually harmless, but indicate too high humidity.
Paper silverfish, on the other hand, can visibly damage books, boxes, and wallpaper.


Why moisture worsens the problem

When warm, moist air moves into cool areas – such as at windows or walls – condensation forms.
This creates perfect conditions for firebrats that find shelter in cracks, behind tiles, or wallpaper.

Also leaky silicone joints, hidden water leaks, or damp boxes are popular hiding spots.


This is how you get rid of silverfish and firebrats

  1. Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate:
    Shock ventilation several times a day effectively reduces humidity.
  2. Check seals:
    Repair damaged joints in kitchen and bathroom.
  3. Remove hiding places:
    Clear out dark, damp corners – especially under cabinets and behind furniture.
  4. Promote drying:
    Use dehumidifiers or place bowls with salt or rice to bind moisture.


Our product recommendations for effective control:

  • Catchmaster 288i Silverfish Trap
    Discreet glue trap without poison – ideal for early detection and control in bathroom, kitchen, or basement.
  • Advion Firebrat Gel
    Works specifically against firebrats in dry areas such as offices, archives, or storage rooms.
    Easy to use, clean, and highly effective.

Combine both products for a comprehensive prevention – and keep your home permanently free of firebrats.


Conclusion

Moisture is the best friend of silverfish and firebrats – and the enemy of your walls, books, and furniture.
With regular checks, proper ventilation, and targeted use of professional products, you can get the problem under control permanently.

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