Moisture-loving insects. Which bugs like moisture?

The bugs that are so often found in our homes can be a real nuisance, especially when they choose damp corners as a place to live. We explain why these insects prefer moisture, which species might be visiting your home and what health risks they may pose. You will learn how to get rid of silverfish, cockroaches, earwigs and mould spores effectively using tried and tested methods. Our tips will help you find both home remedies and professional solutions to fight insects.

Why do bugs prefer moisture?

Insects such as silverfish, cockroaches and earwigs often choose humid environments as their habitat. Why? Firstly, high humidity is favourable for their development because these insects need it to live and reproduce. In such conditions, the bacteria and moulds that they often feed on also have ideal conditions for growth. Secondly, moisture helps insects maintain an adequate level of hydration. The high concentration of water in the air prevents drying out, which is especially important in summer. Excessive moisture means that insects have better access to food, which also prefers such conditions.

Moisture therefore creates a favourable environment for the development of insects for several reasons:

• it maintains an adequate level of hydration, minimising the risk of dehydration,
• it favours the growth of mould and bacteria, which are food for many insects,
• increases the availability of hiding places, so that insects can hide more effectively,
• variability of temperature and humidity favours the reproductive cycles of some species.

The most common insects in the houseu

The most common moisture-loving insects in our homes are primarily silverfish, also known as silverfish. Other insects include cockroaches and shiny mould fungi. These small creatures can most often be found in damp areas of our homes, such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements.

Silverfish and pillbugs especially like to live in bathrooms and kitchens, where the high humidity and warmth create ideal living conditions for them. These insects feed on organic waste and mould, which they find in joints and in the nooks and crannies under cupboards.

Cockroaches prefer dark and damp places and can often be found near pipes and drains, where they have easy access to moisture and food. Mould, on the other hand, is mainly interested in organic materials, which are usually found in damp basements. Their fickle food requirements mean that they look for places where mould grows, and their presence can indicate moisture problems in the home. All these insects, attracted by moisture, can become a serious problem if we do not take care of proper ventilation and remove sources of moisture.

Health risks associated with insects

The presence of worms in homes, especially those that prefer humid environments, such as cockroaches, can be associated with various health risks. These insects often carry bacteria and viruses on their bodies that can lead to serious illnesses. Cockroaches are known to spread germs that cause gastrointestinal infections such as salmonella and E. coli. In addition, their faeces and body parts can cause allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma symptoms, especially in children and the elderly. Not only cockroaches, but also other insects that live in damp corners can become carriers of allergens, which is particularly harmful for people with weakened immune systems.

Sugar bugs and glittering mould fungi, although less invasive, can contribute to the development of mould in apartments. The moisture that attracts these worms also favours the growth of various types of fungi, which pose a serious health risk. Contact with mould and inhalation of mould spores can lead to breathing problems, skin irritations and, in extreme cases, toxic reactions. Therefore, it is extremely important to remove the insects quickly and to effectively manage the moisture level in homes to minimise these health risks.

How can I get rid of silverfish?

Silverfish are a real nuisance in many households. Effective methods of combating silverfish include both chemical agents and home remedies that provide long-lasting results. One of the most popular solutions is to use specialist sprays or insecticide dusts available in shops. Thanks to them, we can quickly get rid of unwanted guests by eliminating them directly in their nests. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and use them as recommended by the manufacturer.

For those who prefer more natural methods, home remedies are perfect. It is worth regularly airing out rooms and ensuring they are well ventilated to reduce humidity levels. You can also use traps you make yourself with sugar or boric acid, which effectively attract and eliminate these insects. Introducing small habits, such as regularly cleaning joints or getting rid of organic waste, effectively minimises the risk of the problem recurring and prevents further accumulation of moisture.

Home remedies for cockroaches

Cockroaches are one of the most troublesome insects that can disturb the peace in our homes. It is important to air regularly and keep surfaces dry to prevent their growth. In addition, it is worth using several natural methods that are not only effective but also safe for household members to effectively deal with cockroaches:

• Using traps with a mixture of sugar and baking soda, which attract and eliminate cockroaches through a chemical reaction.
• Laying out dry herbs such as bay leaves or peppermint where they are likely to be found, as their scent acts as a deterrent.
• Spraying water with tea tree oil, which acts as a natural repellent.
• Regular cleaning of damp areas such as washbasins and sinks to make it difficult for cockroaches to access water.

Combating mould

To effectively combat mould, both chemical and natural measures should be taken. Chemical agents, available in shops, provide quick results. It is worth reaching for specialised insecticides in the form of a spray or powder, which should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, paying special attention to protecting the areas of use so that they are not accessible to children or animals.

For those who prefer more environmentally friendly solutions, there are several natural methods of reducing the population of shiny moulds. Here are some effective ways:

• regularly dry damp areas to prevent the growth of mould, which is the food of the mildew,
• use herbs such as lavender or rosemary, whose scent repels shiny insects,
• preparing traps with a mixture of sugar and boric acid, which effectively attracts and eliminates these unwanted insects,
• ensuring good ventilation of rooms, which helps to reduce humidity and reduce places favourable for their development.

Professional pest control – an effective solution

Professional disinsectisation is an effective method to get rid of insects that like humid environments in our homes once and for all. This process involves the use of advanced chemicals and professional insect elimination techniques, which guarantees lasting results. Professional pest controllers have not only the knowledge and experience to identify the places where insects tend to gather, but also access to specialised preparations that are not available to the average user. This allows them to effectively reach hard-to-access areas such as cracks, pipes or basements, where amateur methods may fail.

It is worth opting for professional pest control if home methods such as airing out, traps or natural deterrents do not bring the expected results or if the insect problem is significant. Professional pest control is particularly useful in cases of heavy infestation, when cockroaches, silverfish or mould become a nuisance to the health and hygiene of the occupants. Ordering a disinfestation service also saves time and ensures that the problem is solved using state-of-the-art chemicals that are safe for humans and pets and comply with environmental standards.

Which insect traps should be used?

The most common traps are sticky traps, which have a sticky surface that attracts insects, where they are trapped. Their effectiveness lies in the fact that they can be placed in hard-to-reach places, such as the gaps between cupboards in kitchens or basements, which increases the chances of catching insects.

Another type of trap is a box with an insect-attracting bait, such as a mixture of sugar and boric acid. These traps are selective and eliminate a specific type of insect. Electronic traps are also worth mentioning. They emit ultrasound that insects find unpleasant, effectively discouraging them from staying in a given area. It is important to match the type of trap to the specific problem and the place where insects gather, which increases the effectiveness of the operation and contributes to a permanent solution to the problem of insects in damp corners of the house.