The small flying moth is not the one that eats your clothes. The damage is done by larvae, usually somewhere dark and undisturbed in a wardrobe or under a bed.
Clothes moths are small, buff-coloured insects that tend to flutter away from light. The adults do not eat fabric. The larvae do, feeding on natural fibres such as wool, silk, cashmere, fur and felt, and are often found where the fabric has been left undisturbed. Small irregular holes, thinning patches and silky webbing are typical.
Cotton and synthetic fabrics are less attractive, but they can be damaged if they are soiled with sweat, food or skin oils.
Hyson Green has Victorian terraces and post-war flats, and both have places that moths love. In older terraces, think of under-stairs cupboards, built-in wardrobes, spare rooms with rarely moved boxes and carpets under heavy furniture. In flats, a quiet bedroom wardrobe or a stored winter coat is more likely. In both, a warm, still spot with a little dust and some wool is all they need.
Second-hand rugs, vintage clothes and furniture are common ways to bring them in. Check these items carefully before you put them away with the rest of your belongings.
Clean and dry-clean affected clothes where you can. Vacuum corners, skirting edges and wardrobe floors thoroughly, then throw the bag away outside. Heat and freezing can kill all stages of the moth, but needs to be done carefully and for long enough.
Prevention is mostly about disturbing the places moths like. Air wardrobes regularly, wash or dry-clean woollens before storing them for the season, and keep them in sealed bags or boxes rather than loose on a shelf. Vacuum under beds and along carpet edges every few weeks, because those quiet strips are where larvae go unnoticed for months.
If the damage keeps appearing, or you find larvae in carpets and furniture as well as clothes, a proper treatment is worth it. We identify what is actually responsible, since carpet beetle larvae can cause similar damage, and treat the infested areas. Our free pest prevention survey includes advice on storage. If you are unsure what you have found, keep a sample in a sealed container or take a clear photograph for the technician.
Keep an eye on stored items such as spare blankets and children's woollen clothes too.
Call 0115 937 5117 to talk it through and we will find a time that suits.
No. The adults do not feed on fabric. It is the larvae that eat natural fibres, so finding adult moths is a warning that eggs or larvae may be nearby.
Yes, particularly wool carpets, and especially at edges and under furniture where nothing disturbs them. Look for thinning patches, silky webbing and shed larval cases.
Tell us what you have seen and where, and we will come back to you. Prices are fixed and there is no call-out charge.
