Ireland's leading pest control company warns that insects "feeding on hair and dead skin" are invading Irish homes.
Rentokil made 42% of their callouts in Dublin after the outbreak of the creepy crawlie infestation.
Female silverfish can lay up to 60 eggs a day, so their presence in households can increase rapidly.
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that are silver or grey in colour, measuring approximately 10-12mm in length with tiny scales and two antennae.
Rentokil experienced a 32% increase in the number of callouts nationwide over the period of November – December 2020, which is a sharp rise compared to the previous year.
Other top counties that reported a silverfish infestation include Kildare (16%), Limerick (8%), and Cork (6%).
Rentokil said the increase is due to the insects seeking shelter as temperatures drop.
Their eggs can be difficult to locate, as they are often hidden in tiny cracks or spaces.
An infestation of silverfish can result in damage to books, photographs, paintings, plaster and other household items as they feed on both starch and cellulose.
They also feed on human debris such as dead skin and hair.
A common sign to watch out for is finding unexplained holes in books or items of clothing.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant for Rentokil said: “The most recent rise in silverfish callouts we have received is most likely a result of the cold weather. Like many insects, silverfish seek shelter and warmth inside homes and businesses during the winter time.
"While these insects are not dangerous, they can become a major inconvenience because of their appetite for starch and cellulose, which can easily lead them damaging valuable items by feeding on them.”
Homeowners are most likely to find silverfish in dark, damp, and humid areas such as bathrooms, basements and attics.
How to prevent a silverfish infestation in your home:
- Deny them food by vacuuming and keeping dust to a minimum
- Store food in containers with tightly sealed lids
- Dehumidify your home premises by using fans, dehumidifiers, or by opening windows to let air in
- Make sure all cracks in walls and skirting boards are filled
