Webbing Clothes Moth Identification & Prevention

A type of stored product pest, webbing clothes moths are a common invader of homes and are the most common of all the fabric pests. Webbing clothes and moths feed on a variety of natural fibers and animal bi-products. Adult webbing clothes moths are a buff-gold color and have an identifying tuft of reddish-orange scales on the top of their head. Long hairs fringe the edges of their hind wings. From wing tip to wing tip, these moths grow to about ½ of an inch in length. The larvae of the webbing clothes moth are whitish and have a brownish-colored head. These caterpillar-like creatures grow to about ½ of an inch in length.

As with most stored product pests, it is actually the larval stage of webbing cloth moths that does most of the damage to our personal property. Webbing clothes and moths pose no dangers to people but do cause a lot of damage to property. Female webbing clothes moths lay their eggs on natural fabrics that the larvae then feed on, especially things made from wool and fur. These pests cause damage to clothing, carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and furs.

Adults often make their way inside homes in one of two ways. They enter inside on their own to lay their eggs after being attracted by a home’s outdoor lighting. Often they move inside through open windows or doors or spaces in exterior walls. The other way they find their way inside our homes is through things like used rugs, upholstered furniture, and clothing already infested with their eggs or larvae.

Inside our homes, webbing clothes moths thrive in high-humidity areas, preferring areas that are dark and quiet. Attics, basements, closets, and other storage areas are common places where adults hide within a home. Their larvae feed and develop inside clothing, blankets, pieces of upholstered furniture, and under rugs.

The best way to get rid of webbing clothes moths and keep them from returning is to get help from the professionals at Albemarle Termite & Pest Control. Our technicians provide safe, effective, and affordable pest control in Elizabeth City. Our family-owned company's top priority is putting customers first and exceeding expectations. Whether you are looking to eliminate pests from your home or business, Albemarle can help.

Pests are not just a nuisance; they pose potential health risks and are capable of damaging property. Avoid problems with webbing clothes moths with the help of the following prevention tips.

• Keep outdoor lights turned off when not needed.
• Place weather-stripping around windows and doors.
• Caulk spaces in the exterior walls of your home.
• Store clothing and other fabrics in plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, not in cardboard boxes.
• Always wash clothing, blankets, and other fabric items before storing them.
• Regularly dust and vacuum your home.
• Keep storage areas well-organized and free of clutter.