Which moths eat clothes?
The common clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) is small, about 6 to 8 mm, and golden-buff with no markings. It prefers to run or hop rather than fly and avoids light. The case-bearing clothes moth is similar but slightly greyer, and its larvae carry a small silk case. Both lay eggs on natural fibres: wool, cashmere, silk, fur, feathers and felt.
Signs of clothes moths
- Irregular holes in knitwear, suits, scarves and blankets, often in hidden areas such as under collars or in folds
- Bare patches in wool carpets and rugs, especially under beds, sofas and other furniture that is rarely moved
- Silky tubes, webbing or cocoons in folds of fabric and along carpet edges
- Small, cream larvae with brown heads
- Small golden moths fluttering in wardrobes or along skirting
Protecting your clothes
- Clean clothes before storing them; moths are attracted to sweat and food stains
- Store seasonal knitwear in sealed bags or boxes
- Regularly vacuum under beds, sofas and along carpet edges
- Air and shake wardrobe contents every few weeks
- Use pheromone traps to monitor for moths
Treating infested items
Wash items at the highest temperature the label allows, dry clean them, or seal them in a bag and freeze for at least a week. Throw away badly infested items you do not want to keep.
When to call us
If moths are in carpets and rugs across the house or keep returning, a professional treatment of carpets, floors and wardrobes alongside a thorough clean-up is the most effective way to break the life cycle. See clothes moth treatment.
Questions and answers
Do lavender and cedar work?
They may mildly deter moths but will not stop an infestation. Cleaning, sealed storage and treatment work better.
Do clothes moths eat cotton?
They prefer animal fibres such as wool and silk, but will damage blends and soiled cotton.
Why do moths keep coming back?
Larvae hidden in carpets, rugs or stored items keep the cycle going. All infested areas need treating.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.