Clothes Moths

R. J. Vazquez, P. G. Koehler, and R. M. Pereira

Release Date: 2/1/2022

Reviewed At: 2/4/2025

DOI: 10.32473/edis-ig090-1994

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of clothes moths, including the webbing clothes moth and the case-making clothes moth. It details their biology, life cycle, and the damage they cause to fabrics and natural fibers. The document emphasizes the importance of good housekeeping, proper storage, and various control methods such as cleaning, using airtight containers, and applying insecticides. It also highlights the use of pheromone traps for monitoring and the need for professional pest control in severe infestations. Publication date: January 1994.

About this Publication

This document is ENY-223, one of a series of the Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date January 1994. Revised January 1996, February 2003, July 2011, October 2013, and August 2021. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

R. J. Vazquez, MS 2004; P. G. Koehler, emeritus professor; and R. M. Pereira, Extension professor; Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.