Clothes Moths

Pesticides need to be used carefully with clothes moths, because they are common on items that are placed against human skin. However treating cracks and crevices, carpets, or under furniture can be done if needed. Sometimes they can get into air return ducts, in which case cleaning the duct is the best option. They can also feed on old nests or debris in wall voids, requiring drilling and injecting pesticide dusts or aerosols.

Things you can do to help:

Preventing infestations of moths in clothing or blankets can be as easy as periodically washing them. Vacuuming and steam cleaning cuts down on animal hairs and other substances on the fabric that can attract the moths. Storing soiled items is a bad idea, because these will attract the moths quicker. Containers that can be tightly sealed are ideal for storing items, and can be used in conjunction with moth repellants. Moth ball products are effective, but strong smelling and toxic. New alternative repellants are available that are safer, and don’t smell as bad. Some dry cleaners also offer a moth repellant service for garments.