These measures help control several types of pantry pests, not just silverfish.
There is no need to throw away every dry food product simply because one silverfish has been found elsewhere in the house.
5. Can Silverfish Damage Books, Clothing, or Important Documents?
Yes. Silverfish can damage certain household materials, especially when populations are established and food sources are readily available.
They may feed on paper, book bindings, wallpaper paste, cardboard, and materials containing starch
or cellulose-associated substances.
Some fabrics can also be damaged, particularly when they contain starch residues, food stains, or other substances that silverfish can consume.
The risk depends on the species, population size, available food, and length of time the insects remain in an area.
Books and paper
Books stored in dark, undisturbed spaces may provide both shelter and potential food.
Silverfish can damage paper surfaces, book bindings, and related materials.
Older books, documents, photographs, and collections may deserve special attention if silverfish are repeatedly found nearby.
