How Can I Get Rid of Moths at Home?

Before we jump into getting rid of moths, it's crucial to know your enemy. There are two main types of moths you might find at home: clothes moths and pantry moths. Each has its own preferences and habits, meaning they need different methods for removal.

Clothes Moths

These little troublemakers love to munch on natural fibers like wool, silk, and even cotton. If you’re suddenly finding holes in your favorite sweaters, there’s a good chance clothes moths have moved in.

• Signs of clothes moths:
• Small holes in clothing or upholstery
• Silky webs on fabrics
• Moth larvae (small, worm-like creatures) in closets or drawers

Pantry Moths

Pantry moths, also known as Indian meal moths, infest dry food like grains, cereals, and nuts. They love to lay eggs in these items, and their larvae will feed on your pantry’s stockpile.

• Signs of pantry moths:
• Moths flying around your kitchen or pantry
• Webbing inside food packages
• Small caterpillar-like larvae in food or food containers

Whether you’re dealing with clothes moths or pantry moths, step one is identifying where they’re hiding out. From there, you can start eradicating them.

Got moths in your wardrobe? Here’s how you can show them the door—and fast!

Step 1: Deep Clean Your Closet

Moths love dark, undisturbed areas, so start by cleaning out your closet and drawers. Wash all your clothes, especially those made from natural fibers. For delicate items that can’t be washed, consider dry cleaning or freezing them (yes, freezing!) to kill moth larvae.

Step 2: Vacuum Everything

Moths don’t just hang out in your clothes—they may also be hiding in your carpets, rugs, and even your furniture. Vacuum thoroughly, paying special attention to the nooks and crannies in your closet and the surrounding areas.

Step 3: Use Moth Repellents

There are several options when it comes to repelling moths. Traditional mothballs work but can have a strong smell, so you might prefer a more natural solution like cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or essential oil sprays.

Natural moth repellents:

• Cedar blocks: Cedar oil is toxic to moth larvae and deters adult moths.
• Lavender: Place sachets of dried lavender in your closet for a natural repellent.
• Clove and rosemary: Moths hate these smells, and they can keep your closet smelling fresh.

Step 4: Store Clothes Properly

To prevent future infestations, store seasonal clothes in airtight containers or garment bags. Keep an eye on your closet and periodically clean and inspect your clothes for any new signs of moths.

Pantry moths can turn your dream kitchen into a nightmare. If you’ve spotted them flying around, it’s time to go to battle.

Step 1: Empty Your Pantry

The first thing you’ll need to do is clear out your pantry completely. Toss out any food that’s been contaminated by moths or larvae, even if the infestation seems small. These little pests can multiply fast, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Step 2: Clean Your Shelves Thoroughly

Once your pantry is empty, it’s time to scrub! Wash all your shelves with warm, soapy water, and pay extra attention to corners and crevices. Afterward, wipe everything down with a solution of vinegar and water to deter moths from returning.

Step 3: Seal Your Food Properly

Pantry moths are pros at sneaking into unsealed food packages. To prevent them from making a comeback, store your dry goods in airtight containers. Glass or hard plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best.

Pro tip: If you want extra protection, freeze grains and dry foods for a few days before storing them in the pantry. This will kill any hidden larvae.

Step 4: Set Moth Traps

Moth traps, specifically pheromone traps, are an effective way to catch pantry moths. The traps attract the males, preventing them from reproducing, and eventually, the population will dwindle. These traps are widely available and easy to use—just place them in your pantry and watch them do their job.

Getting rid of moths is one thing; keeping them away is another. Here are some steps you can take to prevent future infestations:

• Regular cleaning: Keep your home, especially your closets and pantry, clean and clutter-free. Moths thrive in dark, undisturbed spaces.
• Store clothes and food properly: Always store off-season clothes in airtight containers, and keep food sealed in moth-proof containers.
• Use repellents: Natural repellents like cedar, lavender, and clove are great for keeping moths at bay.
• Check food before you buy: Make it a habit to inspect dry goods before bringing them home. Look for damaged packaging or tiny webbing, which could indicate an infestation.

By staying on top of cleaning and storage, you can make your home as uninviting to moths as possible!

Sometimes, no matter how diligent you are, moths just keep coming back. If you’ve tried everything and are still dealing with a moth problem, it may be time to bring in the experts.

At No More Pests Control, LLC, we specialize in moth control and offer a range of pest control services to help you reclaim your home. Our experienced team can assess the situation, identify problem areas, and provide targeted treatments to eliminate the moths for good.

Why Choose Professional Moth Control?

• Thorough inspection and treatment: We’ll pinpoint exactly where the moths are hiding and treat the problem from the source.
• Safe and effective solutions: Our treatments are safe for your family and pets while being tough on pests.
• Prevention strategies: After the moths are gone, we’ll give you tips on how to prevent future infestations.