The Book Lovers You Don’t Want in Your House

Are you a literary lover? Do you immerse yourself in the world of a good book, savoring each chapter and dreading the end?  If so, you’re part of a community of bookworms united by our shared passion for books.

The term ‘bookworm’ has a rich history, dating back to the late 1500s when it was used as an insult to avid readers. These ‘candle-wasters,’ as they were called, would sit by the fire or a candle to read, which was considered wasteful.

Almost a hundred years later, people started to call insects that bore into wood and paper by the same name.

Are Bookworms a Real Thing?

So, are bookworms a real thing in the pest world? Yes and no. There is not just one insect that’s earned the nickname bookworm; there are several different types of pests that feed on the glue, paper, and bindings of books. Silverfish are one of the pests that the term “Bookworm” originated from, and they aren’t worms, either. But we’ll get into that in a minute.  Some of the other insects that are also called bookworms include several species of beetle, book lice, and even termites. We’re going to learn more about silverfish today and some tips on how to protect your precious books from these pests.

What are Silverfish?

Silverfish are not just creepy little insects but a serious threat to your book collection. They can also be referred to as bristletails because of the three tail-like appendages that come out of the end of their bodies. They’re shaped almost like a teardrop, with silver plates or scales and two long antennae. They’re usually about 1/2” to 3/4” long as full-grown adults and prefer warm, humid environments. And yes, they’ve earned the nickname, bookworm.

One other cool thing about silverfish is that they’re old. Like prehistoric old. They’ve been identified in fossils that are over 400 million years old!

Do Silverfish Really Eat Books?

Silverfish feed on both plant and animal material. They love starchy materials and adhesives, which, unfortunately for us book lovers, means they have a penchant for paper, book bindings, and even wallpaper. If you’ve got a prized collection of books, silverfish might see it as an all-you-can-eat buffet. They munch on leather and cloth bindings, starch paste, animal glues, paper, and cardboard, leaving tunnels and holes in your beloved books. They’ll also feed on fabric; linen is their favorite, but they will also feed on silk, rayon, and cotton.

But books aren’t the only entrée for silverfish. They also prefer beef, leather, and other things that are good sources of protein. They’ve been known to cannibalize dead and injured insects. They can live weeks without water and up to a year without food.

How to Get Rid of Silverfish

Now, let’s get to the part where we save your precious books from these unwanted intruders. Here are a few tips to keep silverfish at bay: 

• Keep It Dry: Silverfish love damp, humid environments. Use a dehumidifier in your home, especially in areas like basements, attics, bathrooms, and wherever you keep your books.
• Clean Regularly: Regular vacuuming and dusting can help eliminate the food sources silverfish thrive on. Pay special attention to bookshelves, closets, and storage boxes.
• Seal Cracks and Crevices: Silverfish can sneak in through the tiniest of openings. Make sure to seal any cracks in your walls, floors, and foundations.
• Proper Storage: When possible, keep books on display where they can be monitored for pest activity. This provides better air circulation, which prevents mold. If you need to store your books and important documents, make sure to use airtight containers that protect them from sunlight, dust, and humidity.
• Call in the Pros: Sometimes, despite our best efforts, silverfish can be relentless. That’s when it’s time to call Fox Pest Control. We have the tools and knowledge to deal with silverfish infestations effectively.

Silverfish might be small, but they can cause big problems, especially for those of us who treasure our books. By understanding their habits and taking proactive measures, you can protect your home and your beloved collections from these sneaky little critters.

And remember, if things get out of hand, don’t hesitate to reach out to Fox Pest Control. Our Home Protection Plan is a year-round subscription service that protects your home from pests. We’ll treat your home four times a year, with each treatment increasing the effectiveness of our services. And if you see pesky pests in between regularly scheduled services, just call us! We’ll come out and treat your home again, free of charge!

Fox Pest Control

no bugs. simply better.