Silverfish and Centipedes: Key Differences & How to Get Rid of Them
Silverfish and centipedes may look similar, but they’re different pests with unique behaviors. Learn how to identify and eliminate them with expert tips from ProCraft.
If you’ve noticed an odd-looking bug scurrying around your home and wondered, silverfish and centipedes—are they the same thing? You’re not alone. These pests can be confusing, especially when they share some similar characteristics.
Both are fast movers, both like damp areas, and both can be downright unsettling to spot. But while they may look alike at first glance, silverfish and centipedes are different in some key ways, and knowing the difference can help you take the proper steps to eliminate silverfish from your home.
Let’s dive into the world of silverfish and centipedes and break down how to spot one from the other.
Silverfish vs. Centipedes: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, both silverfish and centipedes might seem like fast-moving, creepy-crawly invaders. But once you take a closer look, you’ll see that silverfish and centipedes are actually quite different from each other.
Silverfish are small, wingless insects that are usually silver or gray in color. They have a teardrop-shaped body and are covered in tiny, scale-like structures that give them their silvery appearance.
They’re often found in dark, humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics. Silverfish love to hide in cracks and crevices, and they are most active at night, making them a bit tricky to spot.
Centipedes, on the other hand, are elongated, multi-legged creatures with a distinct flat body. They range in color from light brown to reddish-brown, and depending on the species, they typically have 15 to 177 pairs of legs.
These fast and agile bugs often dart across floors and walls. Unlike silverfish, centipedes are more likely to be found in areas with abundant food, such as basements or other areas where other pests might be lurking.
Both pests thrive in moist environments, so we recommend fixing any leaks around plumbing or windows and using a dehumidifier in areas like basements or bathrooms. Keeping these spaces dry will make your home less inviting to silverfish and help prevent an infestation.
So, when it comes down to it, silverfish and centipedes? They may share a love for damp, dark spaces, but their behavior and appearance are pretty different once you know what to look for.
Why Is It Important to Tell the Difference?
If you’ve noticed small holes or yellowish stains in your books, boxes, or clothing, there’s a good chance silverfish are to blame. Over time, a silverfish infestation can significantly damage personal items, making it essential to tackle the issue as soon as you notice signs of their presence.
Take the time to declutter any spaces where silverfish may establish a foothold, keeping them organized and free from unnecessary piles of paper, cardboard, or old clothing. Reducing clutter will give silverfish fewer hiding places and help you avoid a potential infestation.
Centipedes are less of a threat when it comes to property damage. Since they’re predatory, centipedes feed on other small insects, including pests like ants, termites, and spiders.
While this might seem like a positive thing at first, their presence often indicates that there are other pests around, which can become a bigger problem if left unchecked. In fact, centipedes are often considered a sign that your home has a hidden insect problem that needs attention.
If you spot centipedes, it’s a good idea to look at what they might be hunting. By focusing on eliminating the other bugs centipedes feed on, you can reduce their population and prevent a bigger pest problem down the road.
When to Call the Professionals
While plenty of home remedies can offer temporary relief, DIY solutions often don’t provide the long-term results you’re looking for when it comes to silverfish and centipedes.
Not all DIY solutions work the same way for every home. Factors like the size of the infestation, the layout of your home, and the specific species involved can all affect the success of DIY methods.
In some cases, DIY methods can actually make the problem worse. For example, over-the-counter insecticides or sprays may temporarily kill pests, but they can also push them further into your walls or other hidden spaces that are harder to reach.
If you’ve tried to tackle a silverfish infestation on your own without success, or if the problem is becoming overwhelming, it may be time to call in the experts. ProCraft’s team is here to help you get rid of silverfish for good, offering sustainable pest control methods that are safe for your home and the environment.
Remember, while silverfish and centipedes may seem similar at first, they’re quite different in terms of behavior and how they interact with your home. By identifying the right pest, you can focus on addressing the root cause and preventing future infestations.
If you’re dealing with silverfish in your home, don’t hesitate to contact ProCraft for a consultation. Our team will help you find the right solution to get rid of those pesky silverfish and keep your home pest-free for good.
Let us help you tackle your pest problem so you can enjoy peace of mind and a pest-free home once again. Contact us today!
