If you've ever found holes in your favourite jumper or discovered pantry moths in your kitchen cupboards, you'll know how pesky these insects can be. We've done our research and rounded up the best advice and cleaning methods to prevent moths from entering your home, and solve the problem if they already have.
From natural remedies to clever preventative measures, here's everything you need to know about getting rid of moths once and for all.
Where do moths come from?
Most flying insects tend to be drawn towards light, but clothes moths prefer to hide away in dark, undisturbed areas like wardrobes, cupboards and boxes. They usually enter your home through open windows or doors, but they can also be carried in on clothes and soft furnishings. Always be sure to shake out any clothes that are not packaged — like those from a charity shop, clothes swap or borrowed from a friend — before they enter your house.
Moth cocoons can look similar to this.
Signs you have a moth infestation
Adult moths do not have mouths, so holes in clothes are actually made from larvae. You can look out for webbing and cocoons in the corners of your wardrobe and cupboards, and signs of damage on your clothes will alert you to where the eggs have been laid. Other signs of moths are:
- Holes in clothes
- Webbing in cupboard corners
- Cocoons in cupboard corners
- Musty smell on clothes
- Larvae on clothes
How to prevent moths from infesting your clothes
1.Wash clothes before you put them away
Moths are primarily drawn to human sweat, hair and body oils left on clothing, particularly those made from natural fibres (wool, feathers, fur, silk). Therefore, washing clothes before you store them is important, especially when putting them away for an extended period.
2. Store clothes in an airtight bag or plastic container
Storing clothes in airtight containers and bags creates a barrier to prevent moths from accessing and laying eggs on your garments. They also help to keep clothes clean and free from dust, which can also attract moths. Avoid storing your clothes in cardboard boxes, as moths can chew through these.
Dunelm Vacuum Bags, 2 Pack
La Redoute Mothproof Covers, 14 Pack
3. Keep your wardrobe ventilated
Moths are attracted to warm, humid spaces, so open your wardrobe door regularly to increase airflow.
4. Hang clothing made from natural fibres on cedar hangers
Cedar is a natural moth repellant, so switching from plastic hangers to cedar can do wonders to prevent moths.
Top tip: Put extra cedar items, such as these pest rings, in the pockets of garments if they are long.
Amber Home Cedar Wood Hangers, 10 Pack
EFA International Cedar Rings, 24 Pack
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ZERIND Hanging Blocks, 8 Pack
Yizhet Cedar Wood Set, 51 Pack
5. Wash your clothes at a slightly higher temperature
Clothes laundered in water hotter than 60°C for 20 minutes will get rid of moths — although don't make a habit of it as using hot water is less eco-friendly. Always check the clothes label for washing instructions.
6. Or go cold
Moth eggs and larvae can't survive freezing temperatures, so if one item of clothing is particularly affected, put it in an airtight bag and then in the freezer for 24 hours.
7. Clean all cupboards and wardrobes with a vinegar and water solution
Vinegar is a natural cleansing agent, and the acid is not tolerable for moths. A vinegar and water solution is suitable for cleaning sealed wooden furniture, but do not use it on unwaxed wood, marble, granite, or other natural stones as it can damage the material.
8. Vacuum regularly
Vacuuming a couple of times a week will remove any eggs or debris that might be on or in the carpet.
9. Make your own natural repellant
Place dried rosemary, thyme, cloves, lavender or bay leaves into a small cloth bag and hang them in your wardrobe and place them in your drawers. You can also use essential oil and herb sprays on contaminated areas.
10. Buy a natural moth spray
A natural moth spray will deter moths from clothing, carpets, and other fabrics, protecting your belongings without damaging them. It's also an excellent alternative to a chemical-based spray that can harm children and pets.
Clothes Doctor Cedar Knitwear Mist
Ready Steady Defend Moth Spray
EcoWidow Natural Moth Repellent Spray
Natural Home Solutions Carpet Spray
11. Hire a pest control expert in your local area.
Hiring a pest control expert will ensure the problem is dealt with quickly and effectively, as they will be familiar with specific pests in your local area and understand the best ways to deal with them.
12. Dispose of all contaminated foods and clean out cupboards
If you notice a musty smell, webbing in the corner or a sticky secretion in your food cupboards — and have seen moths or caterpillars themselves — then you must get rid of all food and clean that area.
13. Be particularly careful of grains, nuts and rice
Moths both feed on and lay their eggs in these foods, so dispose of any open containers of these products.
14. Keep your kitchen well ventilated
Moths are attracted to food, especially those high in sugar, so proper ventilation can prevent food odours from accumulating. Moths lay eggs in dark, damp areas, so good ventilation will also keep the kitchen dry and well-lit, making it less hospitable for pests.
What not to do when you have moths
Do not attempt to treat a moth infestation with pesticides or products you have not checked for toxic qualities. These can be damaging if transferred onto your skin through your clothes or bedding and can be harmful to most household pets.
Are moths dangerous for humans?
Moths are generally not dangerous, but contact with an adult moth can cause a skin condition called lepidopterism or caterpillar dermatitis. Symptoms can include a rash or irritated skin and, in the worst cases, eye irritation, a sore throat, and breathing difficulties. Treatment usually consists of antihistamine and corticosteroid cream, which the GP can prescribe.
Browse our other handy pest control guides
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