Why Bugs Love Your Bathroom

As you step into the shower, the last thing you want to witness is a large spider or winged roach crawling in alongside you. No one wants to share their fresh, clean bathroom with a population of household pests! So why does it seem that some insects are determined to take over your bathroom oasis?

Common bathroom bug the cockroach on a sink
Cockroach on a sink


Common Bathroom Bugs

Spiders, cockroaches, drain flies, ants, centipedes and silverfish are frequently seen in and near bathtubs, showers and sinks. Insects are drawn to the bathroom due to its warm, damp environment. This atmosphere is the ideal location for pests to live, breed and forage.

While most of these pests are just a nuisance, some can pose a risk to one’s health by causing possible allergic reactions. However, while most pests won’t cause humans harm, they can be destructive and multiple quickly. It is wise to get a handle on your pest issue promptly, before an infestation occurs. 


What Are They Attracted To?

Insects appear in bathrooms for a variety of reasons. Typically, the warm, moist conditions commonly found in bathrooms is what draws pests in initially. Insects need water, food and shelter to survive. The bathroom tends to offer all three, particularly when plumbing leaks cause water or humidity to become a factor.

Many pests are attracted to the organic matter found in drains or bathroom surfaces. Debris such as soap scum, hair, mildew and mold located inside drains can also entice pests. Some bugs are drawn to paper goods, cleaners or other products commonly stored in bathroom cabinets and drawers. In most cases, a lone insect won’t pose an immediate health threat, but you should take action swiftly to prevent proliferation.


Most Common Time to Find Bugs in Your Bathroom

Similar to bed bugs, who only emerge at night to feed, some bathroom bugs, like centipedes and silverfish, are nocturnal. This means that you’ll likely only see these insects at night, as they are sensitive to light. They appear in the evening to hunt for food, seek mates and locate sources of moisture to thrive. 

While not all bathroom pests are nocturnal, it is common for pests to emerge at night. Overall, there’s less activity in the bathroom during evening hours, allowing pests to go unnoticed better during this period of time. 

How to Prevent Bathroom Bugs

Whether bathroom bugs have invited themselves into your home, or if they’ve made their way into your corporate office or business, there are several ways you can decrease the chance of encountering bathroom pests. 

By tackling these issues and removing the conditions insects need to thrive, you will dramatically decrease the likelihood of bathroom pests. Here are a few helpful tips:

·      Remove Moisture: Address plumbing issues, leaks or previous water damage promptly. Increase ventilation by installing a fan or dehumidifier.

·      Clean Frequently: Remove wet, dirty towels or clothing immediately. Declutter cabinets and bathroom surfaces as a way of eliminating hiding spots and taking away any potential pest food sources.

·      Attend to Damages: Seal any holes or cracks near pipes, drains, walls, windows and flooring, to decrease the number of entry points into your bathroom.

We Can Help! 

Attempting to eliminate bathroom pests on your own isn’t typically advisable. While a can of bug spray may be effective initially for visible bugs, there could be many more lurking about undetected. It takes a trained pest control specialist to identify and address hidden invaders, as well as the conditions that may entice future pests.

If the presence of bathroom bugs is ruining your ability to enjoy a relaxing bubble bath, contact Flexible Pest Services today!