Moth Prevention and Control

If You Suspect You’re Feeding Moths

1. Find the sources. Use a flashlight to inspect all the dark undisturbed nooks and crannies that the clothing moths like. Check clothing and carpets for telltale signs of moth infestation such as threadbare type spots or holes in clothing or woven carpets, moth larvae, or silk webs spun by the larvae. (If you find dried skins from larvae or sandlike droppings, they’re likely from carpet beetles rather than moths. clothes moths typically like dark, quiet places and may be found under or behind furniture, in closets or in boxes of stored clothing.)

2. Vacuum the entire house, especially the infested area, (and continue to vacuum it regularly), disposing of the vacuum bags promptly (the bag may contain the moth’s eggs or larvae) and cleaning the vacuum brushes in between so as not to spread the infestation.

3. Wash down the floors, walls, ceilings, shelves, drawers and interior surfaces of all infested areas.

4. Even if you don’t see evidence of moth damage, it is important that you dry clean or launder (in temperatures over 120ËšF) all items kept in the infested area. Do this immediately and do not move them into another area of the house, which might result in a spread of infestation.

5. Consider calling a professional exterminator. Over the counter pesticides must be handled with care, but are not as potent as professional products.