For many of us, the bathroom is a place to relax and shed the stress of the day. However, a midnight trip to the bathroom can quickly take a turn for the worst when you switch on the lights and find a bug staring up at you from the floor. Should you be worried? Is this insect dangerous? What is it, anyway?
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you identify the most common types of bathroom insects, as well as give you tips on how to stop them from invading your space in the first place.
So, if you:
- Have found insects living in your bathroom;
- Want to identify them;
- Are looking for ways to make your bathroom bug-proof,
Then keep on reading! This article is just for you!
Why are there bugs in your bathroom?
There is one main reason why insects love hanging out in your bathroom, and that is moisture. Bugs love moist, humid and warm environments. They need water to survive, and they breed the best in wet conditions, so bathrooms check all the boxes for them.
There is no shortage of food for bathroom insects, either. Mould and organic matter provide sustenance to some pests, while other predator types are attracted by the smaller bugs they eat.
Your bathroom provides insects with lots of hiding spots, too, and the damp, dark areas, such as cupboards, cracks, and crevices attract various pests.
Some types of bathroom insects could signify that there is some kind of a plumbing problem or water damage in your home. Any type of damage to your home or pipes’ structure can create an access point for specific bugs, which makes it easy for them to invade your home.
Common bathroom insects
So, now that you know why your bathroom is such an attractive place for insects, let’s go over what types of pests you can usually find in there.
Silverfish
Silverfish are often unmistakable. They have small, elongated bodies, three tails that resemble antennas, and they are, naturally, silver in colour. They are incredibly fast, and their movements resemble a fish swimming.
Silverfish are one of the most common bathroom pests; however, they can often be found in kitchens and basem*nts, too. Having a silverfish infestation could mean there is water damage somewhere in your home, as not only does it create an entry point for them, but it gives them the humidity they need to thrive.
These bathroom insects are nocturnal, so you are less likely to see them out and about during the day. They can usually be found around drains and sewers. They feed on fungi, mould and starches, which is why bathrooms, kitchens and any space that has paper in it are their preferred locations.
Silverfish are not generally dangerous, but they can be a nuisance, especially in large numbers. They can also cause allergic reactions in some people. So, don’t let a couple of silverfish turn into an infestation and keep your bathroom pest-free.
Drain flies
These bathroom insects are tiny, fuzzy, black or brown-coloured, and have wings. Drain flies are sometimes referred to as moth flies, sewer flies and filter flies. They often appear around drains, as that is their main entry point, especially if there is a plumbing problem in the main sewer line. These flying insects can also get in through dry drains that you haven’t used in a while. They are not dangerous, but they can be annoying, especially if there is an infestation.
Drain flies feed on and breed in decaying organic matter, often in drains and sewers, as mentioned above. The heat and moisture are what attracts them to your bathroom specifically.
You may also like:
Pest Problems
How to Keep Flies Out of the House
co*ckroaches
We’re sure most people have come across co*ckroaches at some point in their lives. They are more commonly found in apartments and are less likely to be seen in detached houses. They can enter your home through the smallest of openings, as well as through the drains.
co*ckroaches feed on sewer and drain sludge. You can often find them in bathrooms due to the drains being easy access points, as well as the favourable conditions these rooms provide. They live in moist, dark, warm places, and the bathroom is three for three.
These bathroom pests can find many hiding spots in this area, such as sinks, cupboards, and tiny cracks. The humid conditions make the bathroom a perfect breeding ground for co*ckroaches, as well, so if they are left untreated, they can multiply quickly and take over your home.
You may also like:
Pest Problems
co*ckroach Pest Control: Cost, Pricing Factors and Treatments
Spiders
You can find spiders anywhere in your home, but the bathroom is attractive to them because of the amount of food it provides. Spiders are predators that feed on smaller insects, so a humid, pest-infested bathroom is perfect when looking for prey. This room also includes many spaces where they can weave their webs and live undisturbed.
Because spiders feed on other pests, some people see them as being beneficial. However, a spider infestation can be annoying, so if you’re dealing with one, you better call in the experts. Generally, you should avoid squashing spiders whenever possible.
House centipedes
House centipedes are the only type of centipede that lives inside your home. They have long bodies with lots of legs and long antennae. Like spiders, they feed on other insects, so bathrooms can be an abundant source of food for them.
Centipedes usually spend their time in basem*nts and other damp areas, but it’s not uncommon for them to make their way to your bathroom, too. They can enter through tiny cracks and other small openings.
You may also like:
Pest Problems
Millipede vs Centipede – What’s the Difference?
How can you prevent bathroom insects from invading?
There are several things you can do to make your bathroom less attractive for pests. Removing what they need to thrive will help you keep them out. Here are several tips to help you out.
- Remove moisture.
Increase the ventilation in your bathroom by opening the windows, installing an extractor fan, or using a dehumidifier. - Fix plumbing problems.
Any plumbing issues, leaks and water damage will just make your bathroom a better gathering spot for insects. So, take care of them as soon as possible. - Clean regularly.
Taking away the bugs’ source of food will entice them to leave. - Seal any cracks and crevices.
Seal any holes around your pipes, walls or windows and fix any damaged window screens to decrease the number of entry points. - Don’t leave any wet towels or dirty clothes on the floor.
This will make sure bathroom insects have fewer opportunities to hide in damp conditions. - Declutter your bathroom cabinets and surfaces.
This will also reduce the number of potential hiding spots.
Do you need help getting rid of bathroom pests?
If the insects in your bathroom are becoming a nuisance, then be sure to call in the professionals! Many bug infestations require special treatment and home remedies won’t always do the trick.
So, whether it’s co*ckroaches or various other bathroom pests, we, at Fantastic Services, can take care of them all! Don’t let your home be overrun with insects, get expert help today!
In need of pest control specialist?
Find a professional to take care of your problems.
Trustpilot
Takeaways
- The most common bathroom insects are silverfish, drain flies, co*ckroaches, spiders and house centipedes.
- Bugs thrive in moist, humid and warm conditions, which is why they’re attracted to your bathroom.
- To prevent insects from overtaking your bathroom, reduce the humidity, declutter your cabinets and surfaces, clean regularly and seal any cracks and crevices.
- If you find that you have an infestation, don’t hesitate to call the experts.
***
Did you find this post helpful? Is your bathroom now insect-free? Let us know down in the comments!
Image source: Shutterstock / Try_my_best
