Pest Guide
Moths
Some moth species can become pests inside homes, particularly when their larvae develop in stored food products or feed on susceptible natural fibres. Adult moths are often the most noticeable sign, but it is usually the larval stage that causes damage to clothing, carpets, fabrics or stored products.
Common signs include:
- Small moths regularly seen inside the home
- Moths appearing around wardrobes or cupboards
- Larvae or small caterpillar-like insects
- Irregular holes or damage in clothing and fabrics
- Damage to carpets or rugs containing natural fibres
- Silken webbing or cases around affected materials
- Activity among stored food products
- Repeated moth activity in the same area
Where Do Moths Hide?
The location of moth activity depends on the species and available food sources. Moths and their larvae may be found:
- Inside wardrobes and cupboards
- Among stored clothing
- Along carpet edges
- Beneath furniture
- In rugs and other natural-fibre materials
- Inside stored blankets and fabrics
- In pantry cupboards
- Among dry stored food products
- In dark and undisturbed storage areas
What Attracts Moths?
Different moth species are attracted to different environments and materials. Conditions that may support moth activity include:
- Wool and other animal-based fibres
- Natural-fibre carpets and rugs
- Stored clothing and blankets
- Feathers, fur and animal hair
- Undisturbed wardrobes and storage areas
- Flour, cereals, grains and other dry foods
- Open or poorly sealed food packaging
- Food residue and organic material
How Can You Reduce Moth Activity?
- Regularly inspect stored clothing and fabrics
- Vacuum wardrobes, carpet edges and beneath furniture
- Clean clothing before long-term storage
- Store susceptible fabrics in suitable sealed containers
- Keep pantry products in sealed containers
- Check dry food products for signs of infestation
- Dispose of clearly infested food products appropriately
- Clean pantry shelves and remove food residue
- Reduce clutter in wardrobes and storage areas
When Is Professional Treatment Needed?
Professional pest control may be appropriate when moth activity repeatedly returns, larvae are being found throughout the property, or damage is occurring to carpets, clothing or other materials.
Correct identification is important because clothes moths and pantry moths have different food sources and may require different control approaches. A professional inspection can help identify the type and likely source of the activity so the appropriate areas can be targeted.
