Clothes moth

Clothes moths are small, pale-colored insects with a wingspan of approximately 9 to 26 mm depending on the type. The adults do not feed on fabric themselves, but their larvae are responsible for the damage caused to clothing and other materials. Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, and feathers, as well as synthetic fibers that contain traces of organic materials.

The larvae of clothes moths eat animal fibres, which are not removed by other scavengers. In human societies, garments and textiles are made of animal fibres; several moth species eat them, creating holes and damage, and are consequently considered a pest, deriving their generic common name from their diet.

1. Webbing Clothes Moth (Tineola bisselliella)[3]

The webbing clothes moth is the most common and destructive species. The adult moth is golden in color, while the larvae are white with a brown head. Larvae create silken tubes or mats on the infested material, which can be found in closets, carpets, and upholstery.

2. Case-Bearing Clothes Moth (Tinea pellionella)

The case-bearing clothes moth is another species that can cause damage to clothing and textiles. Adult moths have a wingspan of 9-14 mm and are buff-colored. The larvae are white with a brown head and create a portable case from the materials they feed on, which they carry around as they move.

3. Brown House Moth (Hofmannophila pseudospretella)

The brown house moth is a less common species that can also damage clothes and other materials. Adult moths have a wingspan of 15-26 mm and are brown with dark speckles. Larvae are cream-colored with a brown head.

4. White Shouldered House Moth (Endrosis sarcitrella)

The white-shouldered house moth is another species that can damage clothes and textiles. Adult moths have a wingspan of 16-20 mm and are predominantly gray with white shoulders. Larvae are off-white with a brown head.

The life cycle of clothes moths consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female moths lay their eggs on suitable fabric materials, where larvae hatch and begin feeding. The larval stage is the most damaging, as larvae consume the fabric, causing holes and other damage. The length of the larval stage varies depending on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, with warmer conditions accelerating development. After the larval stage, the insects pupate, often within a cocoon or silken case, for a period that can last from a few weeks to several months. Finally, they emerge as adult moths, which have a short lifespan of roughly two weeks, during which they focus on mating and laying eggs to continue the cycle.[4]

Clothes moths and carpet moths are terms often used interchangeably, as both types of moths[5] can cause damage to fabric materials. However, the term "carpet moth" is usually used to describe clothes moth species that are more commonly found infesting carpets, rugs, and other floor coverings. The most common carpet moth species are the webbing clothes moth and the case-bearing clothes moth, both of which can also infest clothing and other textiles. It is essential to differentiate between these moth types, as their preferred habitats and feeding patterns may vary slightly, requiring tailored prevention and control strategies. Clothes moths typically prefer undisturbed, dark areas such as closets and drawers, while carpet moths may be more likely to infest areas under furniture or along the edges of carpeting. Recognizing the type of moth infestation is crucial for implementing effective management techniques, and ensuring that your belongings remain safe from these destructive pests.

Clothes and carpet moths can cause significant damage[6] to fabric items in a household, including clothing, upholstery, rugs, and carpets. The larvae consume natural fibers and create holes, leading to the weakening or destruction of the material. Damage is often more severe in dark, undisturbed areas, such as closets, under furniture, or in storage. In addition to the direct damage, the presence of larvae and their fecal matter can also cause allergens and affect indoor air quality. Regular inspection and cleaning can help prevent and identify infestations before extensive damage occurs. It's essential to rotate and move stored items periodically, ensuring all areas are well-ventilated and exposed to light, as this can discourage moth activity and reduce the likelihood of an infestation becoming established.

1. Inspection: Regularly inspect clothing, carpets, and other textiles for signs of infestation, such as larvae, pupae, or adult moths. Check behind and under furniture, in corners, and along baseboards, where moths may be hiding.

2. Cleaning: Vacuum and clean infested areas thoroughly to remove eggs, larvae, and adult moths. Wash or dry-clean affected clothing and textiles to kill any remaining insects. Regularly launder bedding and other frequently used items, as this can help eliminate potential food sources for larvae.[7]

3. Storage: Store clothing and textiles in sealed, airtight containers to prevent re-infestation. Consider using mothballs, lavender sachets, or other natural repellents to protect vulnerable items. Maintain proper storage conditions, such as low humidity and moderate temperatures, to discourage moth activity.

4. Monitoring: Use moth traps to monitor for adult moths and control their population. Regularly replace traps as needed to maintain their effectiveness.

5. Environmental Control: Seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors, as these can serve as hiding places for moths. Ensure good airflow and ventilation in closets, storage areas, and other spaces where textiles are kept. This can help discourage moth activity and prevent infestations.

6. Freezing: For small items that can be safely frozen, placing them in airtight bags and freezing for at least 48-72 hours can kill all stages of the moth life cycle. This method can be particularly effective for delicate items that cannot be laundered or dry-cleaned.

7. Professional Help: If infestations persist, consider consulting a professional pest control expert for further assistance. They can provide targeted treatments and ongoing monitoring to ensure the infestation is fully eradicated and does not return.

By following these steps and being proactive in preventing and managing infestations, it is possible to protect clothing, carpets, and other textiles from the damage caused by clothes and carpet moths.

Various means are used to repel or kill moths. Pheromone traps[8] are also used both to count and to destroy clothes moths, although these only attract certain species of clothes moth so it is possible to have an active clothes moth infestation without any moths being found on the pheromone traps.

Among other methods, recommendations to protect heritage collections of textiles include checking the undersides of chairs, moving and vacuum-cleaning all furniture once a month and sealing the discarded vacuum cleaner bag, checking and shaking textiles every month, and regularly checking attics and chimneys. If textiles do become infested, adults, eggs and larvae can be killed by freezing garments in sealed bags for a fortnight (14 days).