Five Common Bathroom Insects and What to Do About Them!

For many of us, taking a bath is a way to relax and destress after a long day. The bathroom is also where we fix our hair and get ready to go out to dinner or dancing, and of course, where we perform our necessary bodily functions.

What happens when a midnight trip to the bathroom leaves you feeling like you are in a horror movie? For instance, what if you switched on the lights and found 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.

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 are ideal for them.

There is also no shortage of food for bathroom insects, either. Mold and organic matter provide sustenance to some pests, while other predator types are attracted by the smaller bugs they eat.

Your bathroom also 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 even 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.

What are Some of the Most 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 have small, elongated bodies, three tails that resemble antennas, and they are, naturally, silver in color. They are incredibly fast, and their movements resemble a fish swimming. Silverfish can often be found in kitchens and basements, 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.

Silverfish 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, mold 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 cause allergic reactions in some people.

Drain flies

Drain flies are tiny, fuzzy, black or brown in color, 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.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches 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.

Cockroaches 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 favorable 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 cockroaches, as well, so if they are left untreated, they can multiply quickly and take over your home.

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 basements 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.

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, such as moisture, will help you keep them out. If you have plumbing problems, be sure to fix them. Clean regularly and seal any cracks and crevices.

Get Rid of Bathroom Pests Permanently

At Alexandria Pest Services, our team of expert technicians will work with you to create a plan to eliminate your pests. If you find that you are having a problem with insects, termites, or other pests and need an exterminator, call Alexandria Pest Services at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional evaluation. We can help you get rid of these invaders in your home or office! Contact us today to learn more.