Spiders and Silverfish
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Quick answer: Silverfish like damp spots, and most house spiders are harmless and eat other insects. Reduce moisture and clutter, vacuum webs and corners, and seal gaps. A dehumidifier and fixing leaks help with both (UC IPM).
⚠ Safety first:
- Try non-chemical steps first: remove food, water and shelter and seal entry points (EPA IPM; UC IPM).
- If you use a pesticide, read and follow the label; the label is the law (EPA). Never use products labeled for outdoor use indoors.
- Keep kids and pets away from treated areas and baits; store pesticides in their original containers, up high and locked (EPA).
- Poison emergency: call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (U.S.).
Steps: easiest & free first
- Vacuum webs and cornersFREE · 15 min
Regular vacuuming removes spiders, webs and egg sacs (UC IPM). - Cut the clutterFREE
Store items in sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes and keep stuff off the floor. - Dry it outSHOP
Fix leaks and run a dehumidifier in damp basements and bathrooms; silverfish gather in damp areas (UC IPM). See musty basement. - Seal gapsSHOP
Caulk cracks and fit window screens and door sweeps. - Sticky trapsSHOP
Place along walls to monitor. - Call a pro if bitten or unsurePRO
If someone is bitten and has a severe reaction, get medical care.
⚠ When to call a pro: termites or wood damage; bed bugs; rodents living inside walls, ceilings or attics; wasp, hornet or yellowjacket nests (especially in walls or the ground); or any infestation that hasn’t improved after a few weeks of steady effort. Renters: report pests to your landlord in writing. If you hire a company, EPA’s Citizen’s Guide covers how to choose one. Renting? See what you can fix vs. call your landlord.
Helpful supplies
| Item | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| Dehumidifier | Lower moisture | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Plastic storage bins | Replace cardboard | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Sticky traps | Monitor activity | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
Generic categories only; check the product label and your home’s needs before buying.
Sources
- UC Statewide IPM – Pest Notes: Spiders
- UC Statewide IPM – Pest Notes: Silverfish and Firebrats
- EPA – Pesticides and Consumers (Safe Pest Control)
- EPA – Citizen’s Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety
- EPA – Introduction to Integrated Pest Management
- EPA – Introduction to Pesticide Labels
- EPA – Reduce Your Child’s Chances of Pesticide Poisoning