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Michael Zhang
Michael Zhang
Senior Product Designer at Yunfu, specializing in automotive modification parts. Always eager to discuss the future of custom car modifications and advanced metallurgy techniques.
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What kind of pests can damage files in a filing cabinet?

Oct 10, 2025

Hey there! As a supplier of Filing Cabinets, I've seen my fair share of issues that can plague these essential pieces of office furniture. One of the most frustrating problems that can occur is when pests start damaging the files stored inside. In this blog post, I'm going to dive into the different kinds of pests that can cause trouble for your files and offer some tips on how to keep them at bay.

Silverfish

First up on our list are silverfish. These little critters are small, wingless insects that are usually silver or gray in color. They love dark, damp places, which makes the inside of a filing cabinet the perfect hiding spot for them. Silverfish are known for their love of carbohydrates, and guess what? Paper is full of it! They'll munch on the edges of your files, leaving behind irregular holes and a powdery residue.

Silverfish are also pretty fast movers, so they can be hard to spot. You might notice their damage before you actually see the pests themselves. To prevent a silverfish infestation, keep your filing cabinets in a dry environment. Using a dehumidifier in the room can help reduce moisture levels. Also, make sure to regularly clean your filing cabinets to remove any dust or debris that might attract them.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are another common pest that can cause problems for your files. These hardy insects can survive in a wide range of environments and are attracted to the food particles and glue found in paper. They'll chew on the edges of your documents, leaving behind a mess.

Cockroaches are nocturnal, so you might not see them during the day. However, you might notice small droppings or a musty odor in your filing cabinet if they're present. To keep cockroaches away, keep your office clean and free of food crumbs. Seal any cracks or crevices in the walls or floors near your filing cabinets to prevent them from getting in.

Booklice

Despite their name, booklice aren't actually lice. They're tiny insects that are usually less than 1/16 of an inch long. Booklice are attracted to mold and mildew, which can grow on paper in humid conditions. They'll feed on the mold and can cause damage to your files in the process.

You might notice small, pale insects crawling on the pages of your files if you have a booklice infestation. To prevent booklice, keep your filing cabinets dry and well-ventilated. If you do notice mold or mildew growing on your files, remove the affected documents and clean the cabinet thoroughly.

Termites

Termites are perhaps the most destructive pests when it comes to files. These insects feed on cellulose, which is the main component of paper. They can quickly destroy entire files if left unchecked.

Termites are often hard to detect because they work from the inside out. You might not notice any signs of damage until it's too late. To prevent termite infestations, have your office inspected regularly by a pest control professional. Keep your filing cabinets off the ground and away from any wood that might be infested with termites.

Rodents

Mice and rats are also a threat to your files. These rodents will chew on paper to build their nests and to keep their teeth trimmed. They can cause significant damage to your files in a short amount of time.

You might notice chewed-up documents or droppings in your filing cabinet if you have a rodent problem. To prevent rodents, seal any holes or gaps in your office walls or floors. Keep your filing cabinets in a secure area and make sure to store food in sealed containers.

How to Protect Your Files

Now that you know about the different pests that can damage your files, let's talk about how to protect them. First and foremost, keep your filing cabinets clean and dry. Regularly dust and vacuum the inside of the cabinets to remove any debris that might attract pests.

Invest in high-quality filing cabinets that are made of durable materials. Filing Cabinets from our company are designed to be sturdy and resistant to pests. They have tight-fitting drawers and doors that can help keep pests out.

You can also use pest control products such as insecticides and rodenticides, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully. If you're dealing with a severe infestation, it's best to call in a professional pest control company.

Conclusion

As a supplier of Filing Cabinets, I know how important it is to keep your files safe from pests. By being aware of the different pests that can cause damage and taking steps to prevent infestations, you can ensure that your important documents stay in good condition.

If you're in the market for new filing cabinets or other office furniture like Table Legs, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you find the perfect solutions for your office needs. Whether you're looking for something stylish and modern or something more traditional, we've got you covered. Get in touch with us to start the conversation about your procurement needs.

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References

  • "Pest Control for Office Environments." National Pest Management Association.
  • "Common Pests That Damage Paper." Entomology Today.