Clothes Moths - shire-pest-solutions.co.uk

Having problems with clothes moths?

The clothes moths upper side of the forewings is buff, nearly golden, in colour. Both pairs of wings have fringed margins. Adults are rarely seen in flight, mostly only the males, and the females after they have deposited their eggs. The larva is yellowish white in colour with a brown head and measures around 10 mm in length when fully mature.

Get in touch!

Additional Information

Females lay eggs in clusters of between 30 and 200 which adhere to surfaces . These hatch between four and ten days later into near microscopic white caterpillars which immediately begin to feed. They will also spin mats to hide under in which to feed without being readily noticed and from which they will partially emerge at night or under dark conditions to acquire food.

Development to the next stage takes place through shedding over the course of between one month and two years until the pupal stage is reached. At this point, the caterpillars spin cocoons and spend another approximately 10–50 days developing into adults.

After pupation is complete, the adult moths emerge and begin searching for mates. Females tend to move less than males, and both sexes prefer scuttling over surfaces to flying— some adults never fly at all. Adults can live for an additional 15–30 days, after which they die (otherwise death takes place shortly after mating for males and shortly after egg laying for females).

Remedy:

Hoover – Clean carpets regularly paying special attention to the edges using the attachment on the hoover.

Treatment – Spray any affected garments with a insecticide aerosol, especially along seams, folds and into any gaps in floors or shelves. Carpets can be sprayed with a liquid insecticide.

DO CLOTHES MOTHS CARRY DISEASES?

Clothes moths are generally harmless to humans, as they do not transmit diseases. However, their larvae can cause significant damage to materials, textiles, and stored products, making them a nuisance in homes with valuable fabrics. While they pose no direct health risk, their destructive feeding habits can lead to costly damage if infestations are not managed.

Request a Quote Today

Reach Us

Location :

4 Compton Close, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7HD

Email :

office@shire-pest-solutions.co.uk

Phone :

01235399073

Clothes Moths FAQ

1. What are clothes moths and what do they look like?

Clothes moths are small, beige or golden-coloured moths that measure around 6–8mm in length. Unlike other moths, they avoid light and are often found in dark wardrobes, under furniture, or in storage areas containing natural fabrics.

2. What damage do clothes moths cause?

It’s the larvae—not the adult moths—that cause damage. They feed on natural fibres such as wool, silk, fur, and feathers, creating irregular holes in clothing, upholstery, carpets, and other soft furnishings.

3. How can I tell if I have a clothes moth infestation?

Signs include small holes in clothing, shed larval skins, silky webbing in wardrobes or drawers, and adult moths fluttering in low-light areas. Infestations often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.

4. Can I treat clothes moths myself?

While vacuuming and freezing or washing garments can help, DIY treatments rarely address the full life cycle. Professional pest control is often necessary to fully eliminate eggs, larvae, and adult moths.

5. Do you offer clothes moth treatment in my area?

Yes, Shire Pest Solutions provides comprehensive clothes moth control across Didcot, Wallingford, Abingdon, Wantage, Witney, Newbury, Thame, Thatcham, and Stokenchurch. We offer thorough inspections and targeted treatments to protect your property and belongings.