The Damage Moths Can Do in Your Home – And How to Get Rid of Them
Moths might seem like harmless creatures, but an infestation in your home can cause significant damage. Most people notice the problem too late—when clothes, carpets, or upholstery have already suffered. Understanding the risks and knowing when to call a professional pest controller can save time, money, and frustration.
What Damage Can Moths Cause in the Home?
Moths don’t directly cause damage themselves—it’s their larvae that do. Adult moths lay eggs in dark, undisturbed areas, often in wardrobes, under furniture, or in carpets. Once these eggs hatch, the larvae feed on natural fibres such as wool, silk, cotton, and fur.
Here’s where the damage becomes apparent:
1. Clothing Damage
The most common complaint from homeowners is finding holes in clothes, particularly in woollen items. Clothes moth larvae feed on keratin, a protein found in animal-based fibres. Expensive suits, coats, jumpers, and even stored wedding dresses can be ruined.
2. Carpet and Rug Damage
Wool and silk carpets are especially vulnerable to moth larvae. In severe infestations, patches of carpet can be completely eaten away, exposing the underlay. If the damage is left unchecked, it can lead to costly replacements.
3. Upholstery and Soft Furnishings
Curtains, cushions, and even sofas made from natural fibres are at risk. Moths will often settle in areas that are not regularly disturbed, such as behind furniture or in corners of rooms.
4. Stored Textiles and Bedding
Any stored fabrics, including blankets, linen, and even old stuffed toys, can become a breeding ground for moths. Homeowners often discover infestations only when unpacking seasonal clothing or bedding.
5. Damage to Food Supplies
While textile moths are the most destructive to fabrics, pantry moths (such as the Indian meal moth) can infest stored food. They target dry goods such as flour, cereals, rice, and pet food, contaminating them with eggs and larvae.
Why DIY Methods Often Fail
Many homeowners try to tackle moth infestations with DIY solutions such as sprays, mothballs, or cedar wood. While these may provide some short-term relief, they rarely address the entire infestation. The problem lies in the moth lifecycle—eggs and larvae can remain hidden for months, meaning new generations continue to cause damage long after adult moths are removed.
How a Professional Pest Controller Solves the Problem
A professional pest controller, such as Pest Assured, takes a comprehensive approach to moth infestations, ensuring the problem is dealt with properly. Here’s how:
1. Inspection and Identification
Professionals begin by identifying the type of moth and assessing the scale of the infestation. This includes checking wardrobes, carpets, and any hidden areas where eggs may have been laid.
2. Targeted Treatments
Pest controllers use specialist treatments that are far more effective than off-the-shelf sprays. These treatments include:
•Insecticidal sprays and fogging to kill adult moths and larvae.
•Residual insecticides applied to carpets and soft furnishings to prevent re-infestation.
•Non-toxic solutions such as pheromone traps to monitor and break the breeding cycle.
3. Long-Term Prevention Advice
A key part of professional pest control is ensuring the problem doesn’t return. Experts provide advice on:
•Storage solutions to keep clothes and textiles safe.
•Cleaning routines that help prevent re-infestation.
• Sealing cracks and crevices where moths may hide.
Act Fast – Call Pest Assured Today
Moth infestations can quickly get out of control, leading to costly damage and frustration. If you’ve noticed holes in clothes, patches in carpets, or signs of larvae, don’t wait for the problem to worsen.
Pest Assured provides professional, reliable moth control services in York and the surrounding areas. Our expert team will assess the issue, apply effective treatments, and ensure your home is protected for the long term.
📞 Call us today on 07375 775 999 or email enquiries@yorkpests.co.uk to book a consultation.
