Pests that Damage Textiles

Protecting Your Home from Moths

While adult moths do not pose a health risk, their larvae can damage clothes, fabrics, furs, leather and carpets.

Although adults do not cause damage, the young immature stages of these insects feed on a wide variety of animal derived fibers including wool and silk. Materials that are soiled or have gotten dirty are preferred over those that have been cleaned. This is one reason why we recommend cleaning susceptible fabrics as a first step towards gaining control. Many times the larvae are overlooked until damage is severe which is one reason homeowners should pay attention if moths are seen flying, particularly in closets where these items are stored.

Signs of a Moth Problem

Visible damage to fabrics is usually the first sign of a moth problem, but there can be other clues:

• adult moths (frequently found in darkened areas and will occasionally fly)
  
• maggot-like larvae (moth caterpillars)
• the silken tubes or cases in which moth larvae live
  
• pupae (silk cocoons) in which larvae turn into moths

Please note, another common cause of damage to carpets or fur may be due to Dermestid beetles like the varied carpet beetle rather than moths.

Identifying Moths

There are two common species of moth infestation in the home:

• Webbing Clothes Moth - moth adults are ½ inch in length with straw-colored wings and no markings. The moth larvae are creamy white with a brown head; they can be up to 1 inch long and make irregular holes in fabrics.

• Case - Bearing Clothes Moth - found particularly with imported animal fabrics, adult moths are around 6mm long with a dark-buff color and three faint spots. Moth larvae are creamy-white and up to 1 inch in length. They make more regular holes in fabric than Common Clothes Moth.

How to Prevent Moth Problems

Clothes Moths do not like light so are frequently attracted to darker areas which are usually undisturbed.

High risk areas include spare rooms, under beds and infrequently used cupboards or closets. Attics are also at risk because many homeowners store susceptible materials in boxes in their attics.

Dirty or soiled clothing is particularly attractive to moths, so always clean clothes before storing them and place them into sealed plastic bags if possible.

Regularly inspect hidden areas such as the portions of wool rugs that are hidden under furniture. This is particularly important if there has been a previous infestation or if you have noticed increased levels of moth activity. Even wool rugs that are vacuumed regularly get a certain amount of soil ground into them making them attractive to clothes moths

How to Get Rid of Moths

Although many homeowners struggle with do it yourself moth control remedies the results are often less than satisfactory. Small problems can develop into large ones and this is when many people seek out the services of a pest control professional.

South Australia has a variety of insects that are distinctive to the local district and Adelaide Pest Control technicians have the expertise to treat moths quickly and effectively – leaving you free of the fear of the damage that these pests can cause. Adelaide Pest Control technicians are skilled, experienced professionals – they are state certified, fully licensed and insured applicators and are required to participate in regular training programs to maintain their expertise. As most live in the area local to you - they have in depth local knowledge of each species and use that insight when developing a pest management control program for your home. They also have respect for you, your home, your family and your time.

At Adelaide Pest Control, we pride ourselves on fast, responsive service every day. If you would like further advice or to arrange an inspection call us on 1300 697 290 or click here to contact us today!