Preventing and Eliminating Moths in Your Home

There are over 160,000 different species of moths. Fortunately only a few types are a problem in your home. Of the peskier, problematic moths, only two main types, pantry and clothes moths, represent a genuine threat to your household.

Moths are attracted to homes for a variety of reasons. The most common causes include:
Natural fibers in clothing and fabrics
Stored food, grains, and cereals
Dark and undisturbed areas such as closets, basements, and attics.
Regular cleaning can help prevent moth infestations.
Open windows and doors

To Prevent Moths,
Lavender and cedar are both natural repellents. Lavender sachets with cedar chips are particularly effective. Place the sachets where you have noticed moth activity or where you store natural fibers.

Skip the mothballs and seal everything up. Wash clothes before storing them, use airtight containers, and avoid cardboard boxes.

Essential Oils that work well are Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Peppermint. Place cotton balls soaked in oil in your closets, drawers, and storage boxes to keep moths away. You may also combine oils with water in a spray bottle and mist the areas where moths are found.

Herbs are excellent moth repellents. Fill a plastic bag with lavender, rosemary, cloves, etc, and hang the bag anywhere you want to deter moths.

To Eliminate Moths,
Use the light-and-dish soap method. Combine water and dish soap in a bowl, then place it under a light overnight. The following day, you should find a bowl full of drowned moths.

Try using vinegar to wash and scrub the areas where you find larvae and eggs.

Install sticky traps to control a minor moth infestation in an attic. Change the traps every 1 to 2 months or sooner if you catch moths.

If you discover clothing or other fabrics are infested with moths, freeze the items for at least 72 hours to kill the eggs and larvae. Afterward, thoroughly clean the items to remove any remaining moth debris.

If left unchecked, moths can cause significant damage to your home. By understanding what attracts moths and implementing these strategies, you can effectively eliminate them and prevent future infestations.