A Guide to Moths

What Different Types of Moths Are There?

With over 2,400 species of moths in the UK, it’s important to address infestations promptly. In Yorkshire, some of the most common types to watch out for include:

• The Brown House moth – Often found indoors and primarily feeds on animal textiles such as fur and leather.
• The Common Clothes moth – Known for causing irregular-shaped holes in various types of clothing and textiles.
• The Case-Bearing Clothes moth – Less common but causing more regularly shaped holes in textiles, often originating from imported animal textiles.

How to Get Rid of Moths

When dealing with a moth infestation, there are a few steps you should consider. The first is to identify the most affected areas by assessing where holes are occurring in textiles or where signs of larvae cases are found.

Then, vacuum up dead moths, larvae cases, silk cocoons, and other traces. Clean washable surfaces to remove any eggs. Following this, launder washable textiles to ensure that no moths, eggs, or larvae remain. Regularly change vacuum cleaner bags and filters to prevent vacuumed eggs from hatching.

What Causes Moths to Spread?

It won’t be surprising to know that light attracts moths to buildings, be it your home or business. Leaving windows and doors open at night can bring them in.

They can also be transported into the home through infested items, such as dirty clothes that have larvae in them. Additionally, stored grains can spread these flying bugs, as they are ideal locations for the pests to lay their eggs.