Firebrats in Wichita and Kansas City: Silverfish With a Love for Heat

Matthew Johnston

53 minutes ago

2 min read

Seeing fast, bristly bugs near the furnace or water heater? They may be firebrats. Think of them as silverfish that love the heat.

Quick Answers

Firebrats are about 1/2 to 1 inch long, with tan and dark brown markings.
They like warm spots, 86 degrees or hotter.
Look near furnaces, boilers and hot pipes.
They eat starchy things like paper, glue, cardboard, flour and cotton.
They do not bite, sting or spread disease.

How are firebrats different from silverfish?

They are close cousins. Silverfish are silvery gray and like cooler, damp spots like basements, bathrooms and attics. Firebrats are stockier and bristly, and they like heat. Both avoid light, come out at night and have no wings.

What do they damage?

Mostly paper, books, boxes and some fabrics like cotton, linen and silk. They can also get into food. They are a nuisance, not a danger. But they can ruin old papers and keepsakes.

Will cleaning fix it?

Cleaning helps, but extension experts say cleaning alone will probably not end an infestation. You also need to cut moisture and look at the warm spots.

What can you do today?

Check the furnace room, water heater area and hot pipes with a flashlight at night.
Run a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements.
Clear out old papers, cardboard boxes and stacks of books near warm spots.
Store flour, cereal and other dry food in containers with tight lids.
Take a clear photo so a pro can confirm silverfish or firebrat.

When should you call a pro?

Call if you keep seeing them after you clear clutter and cut moisture. A pro can find the warm, hidden spots where they live and treat them the right way.

Learn more: our silverfish guide, flour beetles and our pest guide for Wichita and Kansas City.

Wichita: (316) 775-7867. Overland Park and Kansas City: (913) 222-2847.

Quick FAQ

What is a firebrat? A firebrat is a relative of the silverfish that likes much warmer spots, like near a furnace or hot pipes.

Do firebrats bite? No. They do not bite, sting or spread disease.

What do firebrats eat? Starchy foods and paper goods like flour, cereal, paper, cardboard and glue. They also eat fabrics like cotton, linen and silk.