Do LED lights attract silverfish? [5 main things you must know]

Do LED lights attract silverfish? As LED lighting becomes more common in homes, you might be wondering if they attract silverfish. Given that silverfish are nocturnal creatures, they are drawn to dark environments.

Although these insects do not pose a threat to humans, I believe they can cause damage to homes and trigger allergies in certain individuals. They are typically found in humid areas of homes, such as bathrooms, attics, and basements.

In this article, you can learn all you need to know about whether LED lights attract silverfish. I will also be shedding light on how to prevent silverfish infestations in your home.

Do LED lights attract silverfish?

The most important things to know are: 

1. LED lights do not attract silverfish since they are artificial light sources that do not emit wavelengths that nocturnal insects like silverfish are attracted to.
2. Silverfish are small enough to live in cracks and crevices that people install lighting near, unintentionally revealing them.
3. Silverfish are not attracted to LED lights as a food source, breeding site, or harborage location.
4. Factors such as excessive moisture, abundant food debris, warmth, and hiding spots have a far greater influence on silverfish infestations than any wavelength of light.
5. No evidence that correctly installed LED lighting attracts more silverfish or exacerbates existing pest control problems.

Understanding silverfish

• I believe that comprehending the minute details that characterize silverfish is essential to our investigation of these intriguing creatures. Scientifically referred to as Lepisma saccharina, silverfish are primitive, wingless insects that belong to the Zygentoma order.
• I believe their name comes from their fish-like movement and their unusual silvery-blue appearance. Silverfish are elongated insects that are clearly distinguished from other insects by their tapering bodies and half-inch length.

Appearance and size

Silverfish are distinguished from most other household pests by their unusual appearance. They look silvery because of the small, shiny scales all over their bodies. I think they strikingly resemble ancient creatures because of their long antennae and three tail-like appendages.

Silverfish, in contrast to certain other insects, undergo a gradual metamorphosis, hatching from eggs into nymphs and eventually reaching adulthood without going through the pupal stage.

Habits and behavior

I think recognizing and controlling infestations requires a proper understanding of silverfish behavior and habits. These nocturnal insects are renowned for being elusive, frequently eluding human observation since they like dark, dimly lit environments. Their nocturnal habit stems from their need to stay away from light, which they perceive as harmful.

Silverfish are predominantly herbivorous and their diet is mostly composed of carbohydrates, starches, and proteins. They are also known for consuming dead insects and a wide range of materials that are commonly found in homes, such as wallpaper, paper, cardboard, glue, and fabrics.

I believe these materials provide both sustenance and shelter. Due to their dietary preference, silverfish can be found in kitchens, storage areas, and libraries, where such materials are readily available.

Preferred environments

Understanding silverfish’s preferred environments is essential to thoroughly understanding them. High humidity and moderate temperatures are optimal for silverfish to thrive. They tend to avoid light sources.

I believe dark, damp, and isolated areas are very appealing to them since they mimic their natural habitat.

As a result, silverfish are frequently found in crawl spaces, bathrooms, basements, and attics. These places are excellent hiding places for these resilient insects because they provide the perfect balance of moisture and darkness.

The Fundamentals of LED Lighting

LED technology has become a game-changer in the field of modern illumination. Knowing the fundamentals of LED lighting involves not just practicality but also exploring the intriguing science and benefits of this ground-breaking lighting solution.

LED lights are a result of sophisticated semiconductor technology. Fundamentally, LEDs are little semiconductor devices that emit light when an electric current flows through them. The science of LED light is based on the flow of electrons in semiconductor material, generating photons that produce visible light.

I believe the fundamental principle of LED lights differs from conventional incandescent bulbs, which rely on heating a filament to produce visible light and lose a substantial amount of energy as heat in the process.

The exceptional energy efficiency of LED light is one of its most notable benefits. When compared to incandescent and fluorescent lighting, I tested and noticed that LED lights use significantly less energy, making them a sustainable option at a time when energy conservation is crucial.

The long lifespan of LED lights, which frequently exceeds 25,000 hours of operation further reiterates their efficiency. As a result of the durability of LED light bulbs, I believe eco-conscious measures are reinforced by the decreased waste and less need for replacements.

Common Uses of LED Lights in Homes

LED lights are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of home settings. LED lights are ubiquitous in numerous aspects of modern-day life due to their compactness, durability, energy efficiency, and versatility. Let’s shed light on a few common uses of LED lights :

• General lighting

Nowadays, I have noticed that LED bulbs are the preferred option for general lighting in residential buildings. LED lights consume less electricity to provide a clear, bright light, which lowers utility costs and has minimal environmental impact.

• Outdoor lighting

LED lights are perfect for outdoor applications because they are weatherproof and extremely durable. I believe LED lights are reliable and energy-efficient for security and garden lighting.

• Accent lighting

I have realized that LED lights are excellent for drawing attention to specific areas or items in a room. LED strips and spotlights provide precise control over lighting effects, whether you’re highlighting architectural details, or artwork, or creating an ambient atmosphere.

• Decorative lighting

LED light bulbs are available in a variety of colors and I believe they can be used for decoration to lend a touch of affluence to interior design or to create festive holiday lighting.

• Task lighting

LED task lighting provides focused illumination in workspaces like kitchens and home offices, improving productivity and minimizing eye strain.

Silverfish Prevention

A proactive strategy that incorporates practical measures, good hygiene practices, and alternative lighting options is necessary to prevent silverfish infestations in your house.

These elusive pests can be a nuisance, however you can prevent them and keep your residence pest-free by using the appropriate tactics.

Seal entry points

I advise you to start by checking your house for any potential entry points. Seal gaps, crevices, and cracks in foundations, floors, and walls. Thorough sealing is essential since silverfish can fit through even the smallest openings.

Declutter

I suggest you get rid of unnecessary items and clutter that could serve as silverfish hiding places. It is easier to identify and deal with infestations in a clutter-free environment.

Proper storage

I suggest you keep items such as clothing, books, and documents in airtight containers to restrict access to potential food sources. Materials containing protein, cellulose, and carbohydrates tend to attract silverfish.

Reduce moisture

Silverfish prefer damp environments. I suggest you repair any leaks, take care of crawlspace and basement moisture problems, and make use of dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low.

Regular cleaning

Keep living spaces tidy and clutter-free. I suggest you regularly vacuum to get rid of dead insects, debris, and crumbs; pay special attention to dark corners and hidden spots like underneath appliances and furniture.

Use alternative lighting options

• Motion-Activated Lights

I suggest you use motion-activated lighting for pathway and outdoor security lighting. The fact that these lights only come on in response to motion reduces both the amount of energy they consume and the possibility of attracting insects.

• Yellow Bug Lights

Yellow bug lights emit a warm, yellowish glow that is not as attractive to insects, especially silverfish. I believe it’s possible to lessen the risk of attracting pests by installing these lights outside.

• Adjust Light Intensity

When not in use, I suggest turning down the outdoor lights because excessive brightness can attract insects. This process can be automated with the use of timers and sensors.

Natural methods to get rid of silverfish

Natural methods are quite effective in eradicating these silverfish.

Cedar shavings

Silverfish despise the smell of cedar oil and shavings. I advise you to sprinkle cedar shavings or oil in humid areas after taking a shower to deter silverfish. It has a strong effect, and the more concentrated it is, the more detrimental the smell will be for these small pests.

Clove oil

I noticed that clove oil is another potent scent that can repel silverfish. Clove is powerful and has an earthy, cinnamon-like aroma. It can be overpowering for silverfish.

Eugenol, clove oil’s active ingredient, is the reason clove oil works so well against silverfish. This ingredient is effective in leaving a potent clove aroma behind, killing off the silverfish that are currently present and preventing any more from entering the area.

I noticed there are a few drawbacks of using clove oil including its toxicity to humans and its potential to irritate skin upon touch. I recommend using goggles and gloves to ensure your safety. Nonetheless if you use clove oil to deter silverfish, neither the environment nor living spaces will be harmed.

Cucumber peel

I noticed using cucumber peel works wonders as a natural repellent for crawling pests like silverfish. The more bitter the cucumber, the better.

Citrus

Citrus works quite well to get rid of silverfish in your house. They detest any form of citrus. I noticed the most popular citrus scents known to repel silverfish are lemon and orange.

Lavender

Lavender is renowned for having a strong floral scent. This flower, in its dried or essential oil form, has multiple uses around the house.

I noticed silverfish, despite their strength, cannot withstand the smell of lavender.

Rosemary

To be fair, rosemary is one of those herbs that can deter different kinds of pests. Of course, silverfish are no different. Silverfish can find rosemary suffocating due to its strong natural oils and fragrances, especially since they are prone to molting.

Although it is not as effective in eliminating an infestation, it can certainly help prevent one by upsetting their senses when applied!

Bay leaves

I recommend bay leaves to help deter silverfish. Their very basic sense of smell might be hindered by the smell of the bay leaves, making it difficult for them to find food, mate, or do anything else.

Peppermint

Peppermint is another common ingredient present in natural insecticides. This is because the plant’s leaves release an oil that may repel anything, including ants, spiders, and silverfish.

The silverfish will find it difficult to use their senses to find food or potential mates due to the smell of the mint plant interfering with their transmitters. Additionally, the oil can be poisonous and lethal to pests like silverfish. I recommend using peppermint oil rather than peppermint plants directly.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is strong, just like clove oil, and works wonders to keep silverfish out of your house. The smell of cinnamon may be delightful to us humans, but silverfish do not share this sentiment. It tends to bother them and can even be sufficient to kill them if used properly. I advise caution when using cinnamon near your plants and other animals.

How to use these scents to repel silverfish?

• Homemade Silverfish Sprays

Most of the scents listed are available as oils. You may create a cheap, DIY repellent by combining these oils with vinegar or water. Not only is the process fast but it’s also quite easy. Simply take a spray bottle and dilute the oils with water or another liquid. Shake it well to ensure that everything is well mixed, then start spraying.

I believe spraying is a great option for reaching nooks and crannies that powders or satchels might not be able to reach. Many oils can repel silverfish, which use the moist, dark areas of your house as hiding places and breeding grounds. The spray option is also effective if you use cinnamon or cedar oil, as they have been shown to destroy the exoskeleton of silverfish, hence resulting in their death.

• Scent Satchels

Making a satchel is another popular way of getting these strong scents where they need to be. I noticed it doesn’t require as much maintenance because the dried herbs used inside it last for weeks or months. Nevertheless, you should keep an eye out because once the scent starts wearing down, you’ll have to make a new one. 

Making satchels is easy, and you can even buy them readymade at any hobby store. Pick out the herbs you want to use for repelling the silverfish, then take one of the satchels and fill it. When you’re done, tie and distribute throughout your residence.

Satchels are particularly handy in spaces where it is unsafe to use moisture-based products.  This can be useful in places where you need to keep dry to preserve the contents, such as the backs of drawers, cabinets, and bookshelves.

Chemical methods to get rid of silverfish

Chemical methods are also quite effective in eradicating these nocturnal insects.

Boric acid

I believe Boric acid is a commonly used and efficient insecticide that can be applied underneath air vents or other entryways. Find the silverfish in your home before using Boric acid by inspecting any holes, cracks, or other hiding places for silverfish.

Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic silverfish killer. It is derived from fossilized algae remains and kills silverfish quite quickly. Spotting one or two silverfish near UV light or other lights could be an indication that there are many more.

What makes silverfish despise LED Lighting?

Because of their intense preference for darkness, silverfish dislike having their habitats disturbed by light. Thus, LED lighting provides an uncomfortable environment they naturally avoid in these key ways:

• LED lights emit very bright, concentrated sharp light, in contrast to the dark harborage voids that silverfish seek out. This contradicts their preference for darkness.
• The LED light often coincidentally penetrates and reveals silverfish harborages in hidden cracks and wall voids, causing them to disperse.
• Insects and other creatures in need of heat sources are likewise attracted to long infrared wavelengths. However, LED light emits shorter ultraviolet and blue wavelengths, which repel light-sensitive silverfish.

Therefore, the intrinsic features of cool, blue-toned LED technology clash with silverfish impulses, rendering the LED lighting unsuitable for habitation.

How to make LED lights unsuitable for silverfish?

The following ways – how LED lights can be made uninhabitable sites for silverfish:

• Let LED bulbs run hot to raise temperatures; this will keep silverfish away from light fixtures. And it is the way how LED lights can be safe.
• Install violet wavelength or UV light LED strips; nocturnal silverfish are less attracted to shorter light tones.
• Position LED strip lights at doorways and window openings to prevent silverfish from entering and navigating through illuminated areas.
• Apply diatomaceous earth dust or boric acid near the cracks around LED strip lights; silverfish are killed and deterred by the chemicals and sharp minerals in these substances.

FAQ

Conclusion: Do LED lights attract silverfish?

While LED lighting has many advantages, such as a long lifespan and energy efficiency, it does not attract light-avoidant household pests, such as silverfish!

The intense brightness, wavelengths, colors, and cyclical frequency that LED lights produce conflict with conditions silverfish exhibit when looking for safe havens, finding sources of food debris, or creating breeding grounds. Given that silverfish are nocturnal insects that love humidity and darkness, appropriately placed LED lights create an environment that is hostile rather than friendly.

Therefore, I advise homeowners to replace their outdated, yellow-toned incandescent light bulbs with durable, crisply-lit LED lighting without worrying about attracting silverfish inside their residences. Instead, I advise focusing on preventive measures such as sealing entries, minimizing moisture and food waste, and installing additional amber or yellow-repellent lightbulbs.

It is possible to fully make use of energy-efficient and cost-effective LED lighting without unintentionally encouraging pest breeding habitats by gaining proper insight into the behavioral dynamics between LED technology and light-avoidant silverfish. I hope this article on “Do LED lights attract Silverfish” is of immense help to you.