The Clothes Moth is a common household pest that eats holes in clothing and other fabrics.
There are two common types of clothes moths found in homes, the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella), and the case-making clothes moth (Tinea pellionella). These tiny insects consume all types of natural fibres, leading to costly damage if left unchecked. Both of these moths are introduced species in Australia.
In this article we’ll look at how to make herbal moth repellent sachets that are quick and easy to construct, along with other methods, which will effectively keep away clothes moths. We’ll also share some helpful tips to prevent the pest from getting established in your home in the first place.
Clothes Moth Damage
Adult clothes moths don’t cause any damage, as they have rudimentary, non-functional mouthparts, and aren’t able to feed. They only live for a relatively short period, where their main goal is to find a mate and lay eggs. The moth larvae (caterpillars) hatch from eggs laid by adult moths, and they’re the ones that are responsible for the damage caused.
The larvae of both webbing and case-making clothes moths feed on natural fibers and products, including wool, cotton, silk, fur, feathers, hair, felt and leather, as well as lint, dust, and paper products. They’re able to feed on fabrics that contain a mix of natural and synthetic fibres, but can’t feed on purely synthetic materials.
The case bearing clothes moth (Tinea pellionella) can also feed on spices, tobacco, hemp and skins, but requires higher temperatures and a more humid environment for its living conditions.
Clothes moth larvae prefer to eat fabrics and textiles that are stained or dirty, finding them much more appealing. For example, they would prefer sweaty or unwashed clothes to clean clothes.
The damage created by clothes moth larvae is characterised by irregular holes, thinning fabric, sometimes with the presence of silk webbing or cases on the surface of the damaged fabrics.
Infestations can lead to the deterioration and extensive damage of clothing, carpets, curtains, rugs, blankets, upholstery, wool insulation, natural brush bristles and other textile items. Clothes moths create havoc in museums, they’re the biggest insect pest in museums worldwide, and damage items made from natural fibres and textiles as well as taxidermy specimens.
Apart from clothes moths (Tineidae family), other common culprits responsible for chewing holes in clothing and fabrics are carpet beetles (Dermestidae family) and silverfish (Lepisma saccharina).
The Ecological Role of Clothes Moths
Outside of the home, clothes moths play a role in nature, which is to break down and recycle keratin, a protein found in animal fibers such as wool, fur, feathers, and silk.
In the wild, this adaptation allows them to exploit resources such as hair that has been shed and dried animal remains for their survival and reproduction, and to contribute to the decomposition of organic matter in their natural habitat.
While their ecological role in the wild is relatively limited compared to other organisms involved in decomposition and nutrient cycling, clothes moths so play a part in the natural processes of breaking down animal-derived materials.
It’s important to note that they have become associated with human environments because of their natural adaptation to the materials we have chosen to use, making them pests for that reason.
To control these pests, we need to be able to identify them, understand their life cycle, and the effective control methods for preventing and managing infestations.
Webbing Clothes Moth Identification
The adult webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) is a small, slender moth, up to 15mm in length with distinctive yellowish-beige or golden coloured narrow wings with a metallic sheen, that are held back behind the body. The moth has a wingspan of 12-17mm, and the wings have a fringe of hairs along the margins (edges), and are plain with no pattern.
The head of the adult moth is covered with reddish-gold hairs. It has large, dark-brown to black compound eyes, with slender, long, straight antennae which are held in a backward facing position at rest.
The larvae are creamy white in colour and can reach 13mm in length, but are rarely seen. Thay have a hardened, brown head capsule with chewing mouthparts, and no ocelli (simple eye or eyespot of an invertebrate).
One key characteristic of the webbing clothes moth is the presence of silk webbing spun by the larvae, often found in areas where they feed.
Case-Making Clothes Moth Identification
The adult case-making clothes moth (Tinea pellionella) is of similar size to the webbing clothes moth, with a wingspan of around 9-16mm, but it has a dull, mottled pattern of light and medium browns in appearance. The wings are silver grey-brown in colour with a fringe of hairs along the margins (edges), and are held higher in a roof-like shape behind the body. The forewings (front wings) are brown in colour with one large dark spot and two smaller dark spots, though these often rub off on older specimens and may not be visible.
The head of the adult moth is covered with light-brown to grey hairs. It has large, dark-brown to black compound eyes, with slender, long, straight antennae which are held in a backward facing position at rest.
The larvae are creamy white in colour and can reach 12mm in length. Thay have a hardened, brown head capsule with chewing mouthparts, and one ocelli (simple eye or eyespot of an invertebrate) on either side of their head.
Case-making clothes moths are named as such because their larvae spin tunnel-like tubular or flattened almond shaped silk cases (cocoons) which pick up surrounding materials such as fabric fibres, hairs and dust as they drag them around on their back with them as they feed, to provide for camouflage and protection. The larvae are often noticed when these cases are attached to walls and curtains, or when they’re seen dragging themselves across smooth floor surfaces.
Clothes Moth Behaviour
Clothes moths are rarely seen because they aren’t attracted to light like other moths, and avoid lit areas, as they prefer dark areas such as closets, basements, and attics. They’e considered weak flyers, and while the males can sometimes be seen flying, female clothes moths are reluctant flyers, preferring to walk rather than fly. They may be more commonly seen running over the surfaces of infested materials. The larvae also prefer the darkness, and emerge at night to feed, damaging the materials they inhabit.
If small moths that look similar to clothes moths are observed in kitchens and other well-lit areas. these are likely to be pantry moths which inhabit food pantries and other food storage areas.
Life Cycle of the Clothes Moth
Clothes moths have a life cycle of ranging from a couple of months to a year, depending on environmental conditions. Warm and humid conditions generally favour a shorter life cycle, while cooler and drier conditions may prolong the process. During their life cycle, they undergo a metamorphosis that consisting of four stages – egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Egg – Adult female moths lay up to 50 eggs within natural fibres, and die shortly afterwards. The eggs are less than 1 mm long, cream-coloured, oval-shaped and sticky. They hatch after 4-10 days in summer months and up to 21 days in the colder months.
Larva – The larvae hatch from the eggs and are responsible for causing damage, feeding on natural fibres, creating holes and leaving behind webbing or cases. The larval stage lasts for approximately 60 days, but can vary based on environmental conditions. Webbing clothes moth larvae remain at this stage for around 1 month, but as long as 2.5 years if they’re triggered to go into a hibernation state. The case-making clothes moth larvae remain at this stage for approximately 2 to 3 months.
Pupa – Larvae spin cocoons or cases and close them up to pupate and undergo the transformation into adults. The pupal stage lasts around 9 to 19 days.
Adult – The adult moth emerges from the pupa, ready to reproduce. Between one-two days after emergence, they mate and lay eggs. Adult moths do not feed and have a short lifespan focused on mating. The adult stage lasts about 15 to 30 days.
How to Prevent of Clothes Moth Infestations
Infestations of clothes moth can be prevented by using proactive measures to disrupt their life cycle and make areas less attractive to them. Here are some useful prevention strategies:
- Cleanliness – Regularly clean and launder clothing, don’t leave unwashed clothes lying around, especially those made from natural fabrics.
- Storage – Store clothing in airtight containers or garment bags to prevent moths from accessing them, especially if they’re being put away for long storage.
- Vacuuming – Regularly vacuum carpets, closets, and storage areas to remove moth eggs and larvae. Inspect and vacuum wool and wool blend carpets, along skirtings, behind and under pieces of furniture and where the carpet extends into walk-in wardrobes.
- Temperature Control – Maintain cool and dry conditions, as clothes moths thrive in warm, humid environments.
- Monitoring for Pest Activity – Keep an eye on susceptible items for signs of infestation, such as holes in fabrics or the presence of silk webbing.
Safe and Natural Methods to Control Clothes Moths
Using insecticides around clothing and living areas is a very bad idea. The traditional naphthalene moth balls not only smell disgusting, but they’re highly toxic and are best avoided. For those preferring environmentally friendly options, natural control methods can be effective in controlling clothes moths, these include:
Lavender Repellent – Place sachets filled with dried lavender, or a few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball, as moths are known to dislike the scent.
Cedar Repellent – Use cedar blocks, balls, cedar-lined storage or use a few drops of cedar oil on a cotton ball to repel clothes moths.
Tea Tree Oil Repellent – use a few drops of tea tree oil (essential oil derived from the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia) on a cotton ball to repel clothes moths.
When using essential oils for repelling clothes moths, to avoid staining clothing with the oil, use either of these two methods:
- Place a cotton ball on a plastic lid, and add a few drops of lavender, cedarwood or tea tree essential oil onto it. This can be placed in a small, open topped box or a shallow jar in the corner or a drawer so that clothes don’t rest on top of it, and sufficient space for air circulation is maintained for the oil’s aroma to spread.
- Place a cotton ball into an organza drawstring bag (fine mesh bags used for gifts, available from gift, craft and haberdashery stores), and add a few drops of lavender, cedarwood or tea tree essential oil onto the cotton ball. Tie the drawstrings of the bag over the rail of a clothes cupboard to suspend it above the clothes, but don’t allow it to rest on clothing as the oil will seep through, and don’t use too much oil to prevent drips and the possibility of soaking into other items.
Freezing – As a preventive method, or to treat an infestation, place items to be treated in a plastic bag, tie it closed and deep freeze for 3 days to kill eggs, larvae, and pupae, without any damage to the object or toxic residues
Heating – With a washing machine set to a hot water setting, heating fabric to temperatures of 49°C for over 30 minutes kills all life stages of clothes moth. For items that can’t be washed in hot water, dry cleaning destroys pests and removes the moisture and dirt from fabric that are essential to larval growth.
Sunlight – Expose infested items to direct sunlight, hang clothes and other fabric items on clothesline in full sun and brush them, the eggs and larvae to fall off as they’re sensitive to the sun’s UV rays.
How to Make Lavender and Wormwood Drawer Sachets to Repel Clothes Moths
The insect repellent of properties of the aromatic herbs lavender and wormwood can be combined to create a very effective moth-repellent drawer sachet that can be placed in clothes drawers or hung on clothes hangers to keep clothes moths away.
What is a Drawer Sachet?
A drawer sachet is a small bag or pouch filled with fragrant materials, such as dried flowers, herbs, spices, or other scented substances. The purpose of a drawer sachet is to impart a pleasant aroma to clothing and linens when placed in drawers, closets, or storage spaces. People often use drawer sachets to keep their clothes smelling fresh and to prevent them from acquiring any musty odors that may develop over time.
Drawer sachets are typically made with natural, aromatic ingredients like lavender, rose petals, cedar chips, or potpourri. The chosen materials release a subtle and pleasant fragrance that can help protect clothes and linens from odors and insects. The use of drawer sachets is a popular method for adding a touch of fragrance to personal spaces and enhancing the overall atmosphere in closets and drawers.
Lavender and Wormwood as Insect Repellents
A very effective moth repellent draw sachet can be made using lavender and wormwood. Lavender contains camphor which is an insect repellent compound, and wormwood contains a compound called thujone, which is believed to contribute to its insect-repellent properties.
English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most widely cultivated lavender species for essential oil production which is primarily extracted from the flowers of the plant.
French lavender (Lavandula dentata) is often prized for its unique fragrance, and is used in perfume making. The plant grows larger than English lavender and has soft, grey-green, flattened leaves with finely-toothed edges. In my experience the leaves are very aromatic and work well for making scented sachets.
The botanical name of French lavender, Lavandula dentata, alludes to the shape of the leaves, as the word dentata is Latin for ‘teeth’, though it can also be described as a herringbone pattern.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a shrub with finely divided, highly aromatic silver-grey leaves that was traditionally used to flavour the alcoholic drink absinthe, and was used medicinally to expel parasitic intestinal worms in livestock.
Instructions for Making a Lavender and Wormwood Drawer Sachet
It only takes a minute or two to make a lavender and wormwood drawer sachet to repel clothes moths from your clothing cupboards and drawers.
Materials required:
- Lavender cuttings
- Wormwood cuttings
- Small organza (mesh fabric) or cotton bags
Step 1 – Harvest lavender and wormwood leaves in the early morning when the aromatic oils are the strongest. Cut small sprigs with healthy leaves from the tips of the plants.
Lavender flowers can also be harvested if available, as they contain plenty of lavender oil!
Step 2 – Place the sprigs of leaves on paper towels to dry them. Place them in a cool, dry, shady indoor location to dry for a few days, keeping them out of direct sunlight as the aromatic oils will be lost. The leaves don’t have to be completely dry, but packing moist leaves in a bag may cause them to rot over time.
Step 3 – Cut dried lavender and wormwood sprigs into smaller pieces to fit into the organza bags. Remove any thick twigs, as it’s the leaves that contain the aromatic oils.
Step 4 – Fill an organza drawstring bag with dried lavender and wormwood leaves. Don’t overpack the dried herbs into the bags, as maintaining good air circulation allows the aromatic oils to diffuse out more easily.
Pull the drawstring to close them. If using homemade cotton bags, tie them closed with a short piece of string or ribbon.
Step 5 – Place the sachets in the corners of clothing drawers, or suspend them from the top of coat hangers by looping the drawstrings around the coat hanger hook.
These aromatic moth repellent sachets will retain their aroma for at least a year or two, and can be refilled yearly for best results.
I prefer to make mine in late summer when the lavender and wormwood plants have plenty of growth and benefit from a bit of a good pruning to maintain their size and shape. As an additional gardening tip, don’t cut into the dry wood, as lavenders don’t regrow from old wood, just prune into the green growth, reducing it in size. This will encourage the plant to produce more branches, fill out and become bushier.
References
- Clothes moths identification guide. (n.d.). Natural History Museum. https://www.nhm.ac.uk/take-part/identify-nature/common-insect-pest-species-in-homes/clothes-moths-identification-guide.html
- Identifying and controlling clothes moths, carpet beetles and silverfish. (n.d.). Agriculture and Food. https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/pest-insects/identifying-and-controlling-clothes-moths-carpet-beetles-and-silver%EF%AC%81sh
- The Clothes Moth – museums’ No.1 insect pest. (n.d.). Museum Wales. https://museum.wales/articles/1386/The-Clothes-Moth—Museums-No1-Insect-Pest/
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