The holes discovered in clothing are often wrongly blamed on the adult winged insect fluttering nearby. This common misconception overlooks the true source of damage, which is a different stage in the insect’s life cycle. The flying moth itself is not the culprit, but its presence is a clear sign that a destructive infestation is likely underway. The actual problem lies in the tiny, worm-like larvae, which require specific nutrients found in natural fibers.
The Real Culprit and Keratin’s Role
The destructive agent is the larvae of the common clothes moth, Tineola bisselliella, which hatches from eggs laid directly on susceptible materials. The adult moth is physically incapable of chewing fabric, possessing only atrophied mouthparts, and does not feed during its short lifespan. The adult female’s sole mission is to find a dark, undisturbed location to lay between 40 and 50 eggs near a suitable food source for her offspring.
Once hatched, the larvae begin a feeding stage that can last anywhere from one month to over two years, depending on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. These larvae are equipped with mandibles designed to chew through fibers and can digest keratin. Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that forms the primary nutrient source the larvae must consume to grow and complete their development into the pupal stage.
Identifying Targeted Fabrics
The need for keratin explains why only certain materials are targeted for damage. Fabrics derived from animal sources, such as wool, cashmere, silk, fur, feathers, and felt, all contain the keratin protein the larvae require for sustenance. The holes appearing in these garments are the direct result of the larvae consuming the fibers for their nutritional content.
Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, and plant-based fibers such as cotton and linen, are safe because they lack keratin. However, these materials can become targets if they are soiled with substances containing protein or other nutrients. Stains from human or pet hair, skin cells, perspiration, or spilled food can attract the larvae and lead to feeding damage on fabrics that would normally be ignored. Materials blended with wool or other animal fibers also become vulnerable to attack.
Eradicating and Preventing Moths
Stopping an active infestation requires targeting all life stages of the insect. Deep cleaning is necessary, starting with a thorough vacuuming of all affected areas, paying close attention to dark crevices and corners where eggs and larvae accumulate. The vacuum bag contents must be sealed and immediately disposed of outside the home, as eggs or larvae may be present inside.
Infested garments must be treated to kill the hidden larvae and eggs. Laundering items in water above 120°F for 20 to 30 minutes effectively eliminates all stages of the clothes moth. For delicate items that cannot withstand high heat, commercial dry cleaning is an effective alternative, as the solvents used are lethal to the insects.
Alternatively, placing items in a sealed plastic bag and freezing them for several days at temperatures below 18°F can also kill the pests. Freezing for a week at 0°F is often recommended for best results.
Preventing future infestations relies on cleanliness and proper storage. Always clean natural fiber clothing, particularly those with stains, before placing them in long-term storage, as soiled garments attract adult moths. Storing susceptible items in airtight containers or sealed garment bags denies the female moth access to lay eggs and physically protects the textiles. While cedar and lavender are natural repellents, their efficacy is limited against an established infestation.