What Do Firebrats Eat?
Firebrats (Thermobia domestica), like their close relatives the silverfish, are omnivorous scavengers that primarily feed on starchy and sugary substances. These bristletails are particularly attracted to carbohydrates, proteins, and cellulose-based materials. Common food sources include:
Paper products: Books, cardboard, wallpaper, and glue.
Starches: Flour, cereal, pasta, and other pantry items.
Sugary substances: Sugar, honey, and syrup residues.
Fabric and fibers: Cotton, linen, and sometimes silk or synthetic fibers if they are soiled with sweat or food.
Dead insects: They will consume dead arthropods if available.
Firebrats thrive in environments where these materials are abundant, especially in warm, humid areas such as kitchens, basements, attics, or near furnaces and hot water pipes. They can survive for long periods without food, but access to these carbohydrate- or protein-rich sources promotes reproduction and colony growth.
Do Firebrats Eat Paper?
Yes, firebrats do eat paper. They are attracted to starchy or cellulose-based materials, which are abundant in most paper products. This includes books, cardboard, wallpaper, and any paper containing adhesives or glues. Paper provides both a food source and a material they can use for shelter.
Firebrats are especially likely to feed on paper that is slightly damp or has residues of food, sweat, or other organic matter, as this enhances its nutritional value. In dry, undisturbed conditions, they may nibble on paper more slowly, but it can still support their survival and reproduction.
Do Firebrats Eat Fabrics?
Yes, firebrats can eat fabrics, though they are more selective than some other pests like moths. They are primarily attracted to materials that contain starch, cellulose, or protein, and especially fabrics that are soiled with sweat, food, or other organic matter. Examples include:
Natural fibers: Cotton, linen, silk, wool (especially if dirty or mixed with starches).
Blended fabrics: Cotton-polyester blends may be targeted if there are food residues.
Starch-treated clothing: Shirts or linens with starch in them can be particularly attractive.
Clean, synthetic-only fabrics (like plain polyester or nylon) are generally less appealing unless they are soiled. Firebrats are opportunistic feeders, so they might nibble on fabrics if other food sources are scarce.
For protection, keeping fabrics clean, dry, and stored in sealed containers is the most effective way to prevent firebrat damage.
Do Firebrats Eat Dead Insects?
Yes, firebrats will eat dead insects. They are opportunistic scavengers and can consume a variety of protein sources, including the bodies of other insects. While their primary diet is starchy and carbohydrate-rich materials, dead insects provide a valuable source of protein and nutrients, especially in environments where other food sources are limited.
This scavenging behavior allows firebrats to survive in diverse indoor habitats, from kitchens and pantries to attics and basements, making them adaptable and resilient pests.
Do Firebrats Eat Pet Food?
Yes, firebrats can eat pet food. Dry pet foods—especially kibble made from grains, starches, or proteins—are attractive to them. They are particularly drawn to crumbs or spilled food that accumulates in corners, under bowls, or along baseboards. Moist pet food is less appealing unless it dries out, which makes it easier for firebrats to nibble.
Because firebrats are nocturnal and prefer warm, humid areas, pet food left out overnight or stored in unsealed containers can become a significant attractant and contribute to an infestation. Storing pet food in airtight containers and cleaning up any spills promptly is one of the most effective preventive measures.
Do Firebrats Eat Human Food?
Firebrats are drawn to starchy, sugary, and protein-rich human foods, particularly those that are dry or crumbly and easily accessible. The human foods they are most likely to eat include:
Grains and cereals: Flour, rice, oatmeal, pasta, and breakfast cereals.
Baked goods: Bread, cookies, crackers, and cake crumbs.
Sugary foods: Sugar, honey, syrup, and candy residues.
Nuts and seeds: Especially if slightly broken or exposed.
Dried fruits: Raisins, dates, and similar foods.
Protein sources: Dried or cooked meats in small quantities, or crumbs from meat-containing dishes.
They are less likely to target moist foods unless it has dried or has settled in hidden areas. Because firebrats are nocturnal and thrive in warm, humid environments, they tend to feed on food that is unsealed, spilled, or stored in cracks and corners.
Preventing access to these foods—by using airtight containers, cleaning up crumbs, and storing dry goods off the floor—significantly reduces the risk of infestation.
What Else Do Firebrats Eat?
In addition to paper, fabrics, dead insects, starchy foods, sugary foods, and pet food, firebrats can also feed on several other materials that are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, or cellulose. Some additional items include:
Glue and adhesives: Found in book bindings, wallpaper, envelopes, or cardboard.
Starch-based household items: Such as wallpaper paste, laundry starch, or sizing in fabrics.
Leather and leather products: Especially if treated with organic-based finishes or if slightly damp.
Mold or mildew: Firebrats can consume mold growing in damp environments.
Dead organic matter: Small fragments of hair, feathers, or shed skin.
Cosmetic or hygiene products: Items containing starches, proteins, or sugars, such as powder, dried soap residues, or face masks.
Dried plant material: Herbs, spices, or dried flowers stored in cupboards.
Essentially, firebrats are opportunistic scavengers—they will consume almost anything organic that is accessible, especially in warm, humid areas where their preferred foods are abundant.