Professional silverfish extermination typically costs between $200 and $650, depending on the infestation’s severity. For extreme cases requiring whole-home fumigation, costs can exceed $1,000–$2,000. Homeowners can also try DIY solutions, like dehumidifiers and boric acid, to keep silverfish at bay.
Silverfish are small, moisture-loving insects that sneak into homes, hiding in bathrooms, basements, and attics. They chew through books, wallpaper, and even clothing, making them a frustrating pest. If you’ve spotted silverfish, chances are you have a humidity problem—and where there’s moisture, more pests could follow.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to prevent and eliminate silverfish, whether you handle the problem yourself or hire a pro.
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What Influences Cost?
Frequency
Silverfish are persistent pests, and getting rid of them often requires multiple treatments. In humid climates, quarterly pesticide applications may be necessary, costing $100–$300 per visit after the initial treatment. DIY treatments, such as diatomaceous earth, also require frequent reapplication, typically costing around $50 per month for maintenance.
Severity
The extent of the infestation is the biggest cost factor. A minor issue in one bathroom might be resolved with a single treatment. However, a widespread infestation—where silverfish have spread to attics, crawl spaces, or inside walls—will require more extensive treatments and possibly multiple visits, increasing costs.
Location
Bathrooms, kitchens, and closets are easier to treat, costs around $200–$350. Because attics, walls, and roofs are harder to reach, they may require specialized treatments and repairs, leading to higher costs. If silverfish have damaged wallpaper, books, or stored materials, additional repairs may be needed.
Treatment Methods
Pesticides & diatomaceous earth typically costs a few hundred dollars for a 2,000 sq. ft. home. For severe infestations, whole-home fumigation can cost $1,000–$2,000 or more. Many infestations require multiple solutions, such as traps, sprays, and sealing entry points, which can increase costs.
Repairs
Silverfish don’t destroy wood like termites, but they can damage books, wallpaper, clothing, and paper. Clothing repairs cost $25–$100 for minor fixes. Book restoration can range from $250 to $5,000 for valuable or antique books.
Signs & Causes of a Silverfish Infestation
Silverfish are nocturnal and hide in dark spaces, making them difficult to detect. Look for:
✅ Tiny black feces (like pepper flakes)
✅ Yellow stains on paper or fabrics
✅ Shredded book pages, wallpaper, or cardboard
✅ Chewing marks on starchy foods (cereal, flour, oats, etc.)
✅ Shed skins (molts) and tiny silver scales
What Attracts Silverfish?
Silverfish enter homes in search of food, moisture, and shelter. Common causes include high humidity from poor ventilation, leaky pipes, or damp crawl spaces. Silverfish eat mold, so damp areas encourage infestations. They’ll search for gaps & crevices like unsealed cracks around windows, doors, and walls. Starchy food sources like books, cardboard boxes, unsealed cereals and grains invited them in, too. They feed on dead insects, including termites and cockroaches, so if you’ve had a past pet infestation, it could attract them.
Health Risks of Silverfish
Silverfish don’t bite or spread diseases, but they can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Their shed scales contain tropomyosin, a protein that can mix with dust and aggravate allergies. Additionally, silverfish can contaminate food by crawling through flour, cereals, and pantry items.
DIY vs. Professional Silverfish Control
DIY
If you’re not dealing with an infestation, sticky traps are good for catching individual silverfish. Dehumidifiers reduce moisture to make your home less inviting. Sealing cracks & crevices prevents silverfish from getting inside. And natural repellents such as diatomaceous earth, cedar, and cinnamon can help deter them.
💡 DIY methods work best for minor infestations. If silverfish keep returning, professional treatment may be necessary.
Hiring a Professional
Professional exterminators have access to stronger treatments and long-term prevention strategies. If silverfish are inside walls, attic spaces, or throughout the home, a pest control company is your best option.
Top Pest Control Providers for Silverfish
Terminix
✅ Over 90 years of pest control experience
✅ Offers quarterly treatment plans for silverfish & other pests
✅ Free inspection & customized treatment options
Orkin
✅ In-depth home inspections
✅ Focuses on sealing entry points to prevent future infestations
✅ Ongoing monitoring and follow-up treatments
Aptive
✅ Eco-friendly pest control solutions
✅ Focuses on long-term prevention instead of just killing silverfish
✅ Seasonal pest protection plans
How Do Professionals Get Rid of Silverfish?
Standard Silverfish Extermination Process
First, the professional will assess the extent of the infestation and locate hiding spots. Then they’ll decide on treatment options. Based on severity, treatments may include pesticides, traps, or fumigation. They could recommend prevention strategies. Homeowners may need to seal gaps, repair leaks, and store food properly. And severe infestations may require ongoing treatments.
Final Thoughts
Silverfish are persistent and destructive pests that thrive in humid environments. While DIY treatments can help, professional pest control is often the fastest and most effective solution for severe infestations. If you notice silverfish in your home, take action quickly before they cause costly damage to books, clothing, and stored goods.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
