How to Get Rid of Firebrats in Tennessee Homes

Firebrats, like silverfish, are a nuisance pest that are attracted to moisture and dampness. They make their way into your home via leaking roofs, cracks in foundations or gaps in windows, or even inside shipping boxes, furniture, or books. Because firebrats contaminate any household materials they feed on—including stored foods in your pantry—and can eat books and papers, knowing how to get rid of firebrats quickly is essential for Tennessee homeowners.

How to Get Rid of Firebrats: Effective Methods

Eliminate Moisture to Get Rid of Firebrats

There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution to a firebrat infestation, but moisture control is crucial. If you notice firebrats in your bathroom or in your basement, it’s probably because of excess moisture. To get rid of firebrats:

• Run exhaust fans while showering or bathing to help remove humidity
• Install dehumidifiers in basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas
• Fix any plumbing leaks promptly
• Ensure good ventilation in attics and crawl spaces
• Address any water damage immediately

Remove Food Sources When Getting Rid of Firebrats

If you see firebrats around your pantry or kitchen, you must get rid of all contaminated stored foods, especially flour, cereal, sugars, and proteins. Additionally:

• Transfer uncontaminated dry goods to sealed plastic containers
• Clean up food spills promptly
• Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where crumbs may accumulate
• Store books, important papers, and fabrics in sealed containers
• Remove old newspapers, magazines, and cardboard boxes

Seal Entry Points to Get Rid of Firebrats

To prevent more firebrats from entering while you’re working to eliminate existing ones:

• Seal up any cracks or holes around windows or doors
• Caulk openings around pipes and electrical outlets
• Repair cracks in foundation walls
• Install weather stripping around doors and windows
• Check and repair damaged screens

DIY Traps and Treatments for Getting Rid of Firebrats

For minor infestations, you might try:

• Sticky traps placed in corners and along baseboards
• Diatomaceous earth applied in dry areas where firebrats travel
• Boric acid in hidden areas (keeping away from children and pets)
• Homemade traps using a glass jar with paper wrapped around the outside

However, these methods often provide only temporary relief when dealing with established firebrat populations.