Ever wondered why insects seem to flock to your bathroom? It all comes down to moisture, warmth, and easy access to water. These conditions create an ideal environment for pests searching for relief from dry surroundings. Whether you’ve noticed something darting behind the toilet or crawling near the bathtub, it’s helpful to recognize which bugs are common in bathrooms—and more importantly, how to get rid of them. Below are ten pesky bathroom intruders and practical tips for keeping them out.
Silverfish
Silverfish are tiny, metallic-looking insects that move in a wiggling, fish-like motion. They thrive in humid spaces like bathrooms and love feasting on starchy substances such as paper, glue, and even shampoo residue. To make your bathroom less inviting, reduce humidity by using an exhaust fan or cracking open a window. Get rid of damp paper products like soggy cardboard or peeling wallpaper, as these can attract silverfish. Sealing up cracks around pipes and along baseboards can also minimize their hiding spots, lowering the chances of an unexpected encounter.
Cockroaches
Roaches are drawn to moisture and food sources—both of which bathrooms can provide if there are water leaks or accumulated soap scum. These resilient pests can slip in through drains, vents, and tiny gaps under doors. To keep them at bay, make sure to wipe down wet surfaces, fix leaks, and block potential entry points. If you’ve already spotted one scurrying around, consider placing gel baits or traps near their hiding spots, like under the sink or around drains.
Drain Flies
Also called moth flies, these tiny, fuzzy-winged insects are often seen hovering around sinks and bathtubs. Their favorite breeding ground? The slimy buildup inside drains. To eliminate them, scrub your pipes with a stiff brush and flush them out with boiling water or a safe cleaning solution. Keeping your bathroom dry and free of standing water will make it harder for them to thrive. While they aren’t harmful, nobody wants tiny flies buzzing around while they’re trying to unwind in the tub.
Spiders
Although technically not insects, spiders often turn up in bathrooms, either seeking moisture or preying on smaller bugs. While they help control other pests, most people don’t want to share their space with them. Regularly cleaning corners, checking behind cabinets, and avoiding damp towel piles can make your bathroom less appealing to them. If you want an extra layer of protection, try spraying peppermint oil in corners—many spiders dislike strong scents.
Ants
Ants usually show up in bathrooms searching for water or sweet-smelling residues from hair products and soaps. To deter them, fix any leaks, store hygiene products in closed cabinets, and clean up spills promptly. Sealing small cracks around plumbing, vents, and windows will cut off their entry points. If they persist, discreetly place ant baits under the sink or near the toilet—but keep them out of reach of kids and pets.
Earwigs
Recognizable by the pincers on their rear end, earwigs might look intimidating, but they’re harmless to humans. They prefer dark, damp spaces, making bathrooms a prime hiding spot. To avoid surprise encounters, keep the room well-ventilated, use a dehumidifier, and wipe up excess water. Check for and seal gaps, especially along exterior walls, to stop them from sneaking inside. Keeping your bathroom dry and well-sealed will discourage them from settling in.
Centipedes
With their many legs and lightning-fast movements, centipedes can be unsettling to spot darting across the floor. However, they feed on other insects, meaning their presence often signals a bigger pest problem. The best way to prevent them is to lower humidity—run an exhaust fan, open a window after showers, and fix leaks. Sealing cracks along baseboards and plumbing fixtures will also limit their access.
Psocids (Booklice)
Psocids, commonly known as booklice, are tiny insects that thrive in moisture-rich areas with mold or mildew. Bathrooms with poor ventilation are their favorite hiding spots, as they feed on the fungi that develop on damp surfaces. To keep them out, improve air circulation by running a fan during and after showers, and clean regularly with a mild disinfectant. If mold starts forming, remove it immediately—without their main food source, psocids will disappear.
Pill Bugs (Roly-Polies)
Pill bugs, or roly-polies, typically live outdoors in damp soil, but they can wander into bathrooms if they find a humid environment inside. Since they need constant moisture to survive, a wet bathroom is a perfect retreat. To encourage them to leave, keep the space as dry as possible by repairing leaks and wiping up puddles. Blocking entry points around doors and windows will also prevent them from sneaking in. While harmless, they’re not exactly a welcome sight near your shower.
Springtails
Springtails are tiny insects named for their ability to jump when disturbed. They love high-humidity areas and feed on mold, algae, and organic debris. If your sink or tub drain has residue, you may spot these tiny jumpers around. The best way to keep them away is to reduce moisture—use an exhaust fan, dry off surfaces, and clean regularly. Make sure to scrub damp spots like bath mats and shower curtains, as these can be their favorite hangouts.
Keeping Your Bathroom Bug-Free
A pest-free bathroom is within reach if you maintain a simple yet effective cleaning routine. Regularly wiping down surfaces, fixing leaks, and ensuring proper ventilation will go a long way. Avoid leaving damp towels and bath mats piled up, as these create the perfect breeding ground for bugs. Also, inspect for cracks and seal them with caulk to block entry points. A little effort in maintenance can keep your bathroom a peaceful, pest-free space—no six-legged or eight-legged intruders allowed!