Top Tips for Tackling Clothes Moths Like a Pro
1. Moth Prevention Starts Year-Round
One of the biggest misconceptions is that Clothes Moths are only active during spring and summer. While it’s true they thrive in warm, humid conditions, many homes are now centrally heated which allows them to remain active all year round. Wardrobes, storage boxes, attics, and under-furniture spaces create the perfect undisturbed habitats, no matter the season.
Tip: Keep moth traps in place throughout the year and refresh them regularly. Seasonal cleaning is important, but moth prevention should be constant.
2. It’s the Larvae You Need to Worry About
Adult moths aren’t the ones eating your clothes. It’s their larvae. Once female moths lay eggs on garments made from animal-based fibres, and once those eggs hatch into larvae they feed on the keratin, which is a protein found in materials like wool, silk, cashmere, feathers, and even pet hair.
Tip: Moths are also attracted to sweat, body oils, and food residue. Always clean clothes before storing them, even if they’ve been worn just once.
3. Use Moth Traps Proactively, Not Just Reactively
Pheromone traps attract and trap active adult male clothes moths, therefore helping to break the breeding cycle. They’re one of the simplest yet most effective tools in your clothes moth control toolkit, but they’re often used too late.
Tip: Position traps 3 to 6 feet above floor level, and inside closets, under furniture, or in rooms where wool, silk, or animal-based textiles are stored. Your traps will last for 12 weeks after activation but depending on your catch rate you may need to replace them sooner. A sudden spike in trap activity is your early warning sign.
4. Clean Smart, Not Just Often
Regular cleaning is important, but strategic cleaning is what keeps moths at bay. Clothes Moth Larvae often hide in overlooked places:
- The edges of rugs and carpets
- Behind wardrobes or under chests of drawers
- Inside fabric storage boxes or under couch cushions
- Beneath radiators or along floorboards
Tip: Vacuum these areas regularly and dispose of vacuum bags immediately after use. Wipe down surfaces thoroughly with a cleaning solution to remove moth eggs and dust.
5. Rethink How You Store Your Clothes
Plastic bags, cardboard boxes, and unused garment covers can all contribute to a moth infestation. Cardboard can retain moth eggs from previous infestations, while plastic can trap moisture, creating mould and mildew, both attractive to moths.
Tip: Use breathable cotton or linen garment storage bags for hanging items. For folded clothing, airtight bins with moth repellent sachets inside work best. Avoid putting anything away unless it’s been properly cleaned and fully dried.
6. Don’t Forget Soft Furnishings
Clothes Moths don’t stop at your wardrobe. Rugs, cushions, throws, upholstered chairs, and even curtain linings are all potential targets. If it’s made from animal-based fibres and rarely disturbed, it’s fair game.
Tip: Air out blankets and cushions every few months. Rotate and vacuum wool rugs frequently, and make sure to vacuum underneath furniture where moths thrive undetected.
7. When to Take Action and When to Get Help
One or two moths caught in a trap might not be cause for alarm. But consistent catches or visible signs of damage, like moth clothes holes, silky threads, or powdery residue, mean there’s likely an active infestation.
Tip: In those cases, take a multi-step approach:
- Clean the area thoroughly where you are seeing moths and moth damage, or where you suspect that moths are present
- Treat affected garments (dry clean, hot wash, or freeze for 72 hours or more)
- Place fresh traps, monitor and refresh traps every 12 weeks or when needed
- Use moth killer kits if needed
Final Thoughts: Stay One Step Ahead
Tackling Clothes Moths doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With regular monitoring, smart storage, and proactive use of moth traps, you can protect your clothing and avoid costly damage.
And remember, moth prevention isn’t just about reacting to holes in your favourite jumper. It’s about consistent care and being one step ahead of the Moth lifecycle. Whether you’re storing investment fashion pieces or simply want peace of mind, MothPrevention is here to help.
Explore our full range of MothPrevention Moth Traps and Refills, and take advantage of our subscription options to keep your home protected all year round.
About MothPrevention
MothPrevention® speak to customers every day about their clothes moth issues - clothes moths are a species that are ever increasing and that can cause significant damage to clothes, carpets and other home textiles.
To date, we’ve helped over 250,000 customers deal with their moth problems. We have developed professional grade solutions including proprietary pheromones and trap design engineered to the highest production standards.
