Do Moths Damage More Than Just Clothes?

Quick: think of moths and the damage they cause. The immediate image which comes to mind are holes in your jumpers and jerseys. While this does happen what you have to realise is this: moths damage more than just clothes. In fact, anything which is made from natural fibres can be damaged by moths.  

This can include things like rugs, carpets, linen, bedding, towels, curtains and soft furnishings like pillows. Moths are a residential pest control nightmare that are also capable of destroying furniture with soft coverings such as armchairs and sofas. They are also particularly attracted to leather furniture.

But why do moths damage more than just clothes? 

The reason why moths damage more than just clothes is simple. The caterpillars which precede moths feed on natural fibres such as wool, silk, leather, feathers cashmere and so on. The commonality between these materials is that they are all produced from animals.

While these fibres are most often used in clothing, they are also used in the items we’ve mentioned above. What often happens is that the items above are made from a blend of fibres, including the ones just mentioned.

Very few people understand this, and it’s why they wake up to find holes in their carpets and furniture. This also depends on the species of moth which you are dealing with. The biggest culprits are the common clothes moths, case bearing moths, brown house moths, and white shouldered house moths. These moths all prefer different materials. Some prefer things like wool and leather. Others go for cotton, cashmere or silk.

Moths are damaging my home but what can I do about it?

But what can you do about the damage caused by moths? Unfortunately, by the time you start to notice moth damage, it may already be too late. This is why it’s important that you prevent the moths in the first place. After all, prevention is always better than cure. However be aware that DIY pest control can be less effective than hiring an expert when it comes to moths.

To start with, you need to prevent the moths from getting into your home. You can use screens on your doors and windows to stop them from entering. Once in, they can multiply. You should also regularly clean your home by vacuuming. Also make sure to clean your cupboards. This is especially important if you are storing clothes. Empty out your cupboards and clean them thoroughly. It also helps to wash your clothes. This helps to destroy moths’ eggs, as well as larvae and caterpillars that may be present.

While this may help, it’s not always possible to prevent an infestation. This is why it’s always a good idea to speak to a professional moth control specialist. If this is something you’re interested in, then get in touch with us today.