Moths in Homes and Businesses
Some moths get inside by flying in through open doors or windows. Others, like pantry and clothes moths, sneak inside via food or fabrics. As larvae, these pests contaminate stored products and ruin clothing and linens. In processing plants or storage facilities, an infestation can cause serious damage and spread to other places.
Types of Moths
Adult pantry moths lay eggs in items like flour, grains, and animal feed. After hatching, the larvae crawl across the food as they eat while spinning silken webbing and polluting the contents with waste. In homes, these insects often invade kitchens. In supermarkets and pet stores, pantry moth infestations can destroy thousands of dollars of inventory in a short time.
Clothes moths can hide in closets, retail stockrooms, thrift or consignment shops, and even in museums that store or display textiles. Clothes moth larvae feed on materials such as wool, fur, feathers, and leather. The pests ruin clothing and bedding by chewing holes through them. They can also destroy rugs, drapes, and upholstery, causing problems for hotels and home furnishing showrooms.
How to Get Rid of Moths
Dealing with a moth infestation requires thorough cleaning and proper storage. To remove pantry moths, throw out all contaminated goods, vacuum carefully, and wipe down shelves. Transfer products to sealed containers with tight lids as soon as you bring them home from the store.
Wash clothing regularly to avoid attracting clothes moths. Storing garments, blankets, and comforters in airtight bags can also help protect them from damage. Vacuum often to prevent the buildup of dust, hair, and lint, Afterwards, discard the debris immediately to dispose of any eggs or larvae. For persistent clothes or pantry moth issues, contact Western Pest Services for expert advice.