Have you ever reached into your closet for your favorite sweater, only to find it full of tiny holes? Or open your pantry to find moths invading your snacks? The worst is when you are about to make some cookies but see a moth infestation in the flour.
Say goodbye to these unwelcome guests and reclaim your home with our guide to getting rid of moths naturally. From simple cleaning tips to aromatic repellents, we have the solutions to keep your clothes and food safe from these flying intruders.
1. Regular Cleaning / Thorough Vacuuming
Regular cleaning and deep vacuuming can help prevent infestations by removing eggs and larvae. This method is effective for various types of moths, including the common clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella).
- Behavior: Moths lay eggs in undisturbed, dirty areas.
- Method: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture regularly.
- Extra Step: Wipe down surfaces in storage areas to eliminate potential egg sites.
2. Inspecting Food For Moth Signs
Inspecting food in your pantry helps prevent meal moths (Plodia interpunctella) from infesting dry goods.
- Behavior: Meal moths are attracted to grains and dry foods.
- Method: Check food packages for signs of infestation before purchasing.
- Extra Step: Discard infested items promptly to prevent spreading.
3. Keeping Clothing in Airtight Bins to Prevent Moths
Storing clothes in airtight bins protects against clothing moths (Tineola bisselliella).
- Behavior: Clothing moths prefer natural fibers and dark, undisturbed areas.
- Method: Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids for storing off-season clothing.
- Extra Step: Include a few moth-repellent sachets inside the bins.
4. Using Essential Oils to Repel Moths
Essential oils like lavender, rosemary, and cedar can naturally repel moths like carpet moths (Trichophaga tapetzella). Check out this profile on rosemary as a natural pest repellent.
- Behavior: Moths are repelled by many essential oils.
- Method: Place essential oil sachets in closets and storage areas.
- Extra Step: Refresh sachets regularly to maintain their potency.
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5. Freezing Infested Items
Freezing kills moth eggs and larvae in infested items, such as those from the Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella).
- Behavior: Moth eggs and larvae cannot survive extreme cold.
- Method: Place infested items in the freezer for at least 72 hours.
- Extra Step: Use airtight bags to prevent condensation during thawing.
6. Using Pheromone Traps
Pheromone traps are a natural way to control moth populations, and they are effective for species like the pantry moth (Plodia interpunctella).
- Behavior: Male moths are attracted to pheromone lures.
- Method: Set up pheromone traps in areas where you commonly see moths.
- Extra Step: Replace traps regularly to maintain effectiveness.
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- End Pantry Moth Destruction — Dr. Killigan’s lab-proven, pheromone pantry moth traps are effective against the Indian meal moth, Mediterranean flour moths and other food moths. Protect your bird seed, pet food, whole grains, flour, almonds, raisins and other dry goods in your kitchen and pantry. THESE TRAPS ARE NOT FOR CLOTHING MOTHS OR GYPSY MOTHS. Use Dr. Killigan's Clothing Moth Traps to control clothes moths attacking fabrics, fur or feathers.
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- Easy to Use & Long-Lasting — Simply open, peel, fold and position the trap in your pantry, kitchen or areas with moths. Use Dr. Killigan's Premium Pantry Moth Traps to keep your pantry and kitchen moth-free for up to six months, and protect the comfort of your home at the same time.
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7. Natural Repellents for Moth Control
Natural repellents, such as cedarwood and bay leaves, can deter moths, such as the brown house moth (Hofmannophila pseudospretella).
- Behavior: Moths avoid areas with strong, natural scents.
- Method: Place cedar blocks or bay leaves in closets and storage areas.
- Extra Step: Renew the repellent items periodically to keep them effective.
8. Sunlight and Airing Out
Exposing fabrics to sunlight and fresh air can deter moths like the everyday clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella).
- Behavior: Moths thrive in dark, undisturbed environments.
- Method: Hang clothes and fabrics outside in the sun periodically.
- Extra Step: Shake out items to dislodge any hidden larvae.
9. Vacuum-Sealing Fabrics to Get Rid of Moths
Vacuum-sealing fabrics are a highly effective way to protect them from moths, particularly the case-bearing clothes moth (Tinea pellionella).
- Behavior: Moths cannot penetrate vacuum-sealed bags.
- Method: Store susceptible fabrics in vacuum-sealed bags.
- Extra Step: Ensure you properly seal bags to maintain effectiveness.
10. Maintaining Low Humidity
Low humidity in your home can deter moths like the white-shouldered house moth (Endrosis sarcitrella).
- Behavior: Moths prefer humid environments for laying eggs.
- Method: Use dehumidifiers to maintain low humidity levels.
- Extra Step: Monitor humidity with a hygrometer to ensure it stays below 50%.
Final Thoughts on Natural Ways to Get Rid of Moths
Incorporating natural methods to get rid of moths protects your home and keeps your environment free from harsh chemicals. With these eco-friendly moth prevention tips, you can enjoy a moth-free home and keep your clothes and pantry items safe and intact.