Have you ever found holes in your clothes and wondered what caused them? One common belief is that moths are responsible for eating clothes. But, is this true? Let's find out.
What are Moths?
Moths are insects belonging to the order Lepidoptera, which also includes butterflies. They have wings covered in scales and a long, thin body. Moths are nocturnal creatures and are often attracted to light.
Types of Moths
There are many species of moths, but not all of them eat clothes. The most common clothes-eating moths are the webbing clothes moth and the casemaking clothes moth. These moths are small, around 1/4 inch in length, and are usually beige or light brown in color.
Do Moths Eat Clothes?
Yes, moths can eat clothes, but not all species of moths do. Only the larvae of webbing clothes moths and casemaking clothes moths eat clothes. Adult moths do not eat clothes, but they lay their eggs on them.
What Do Clothes-Eating Moths Eat?
The larvae of clothes-eating moths feed on animal-based materials such as wool, silk, feathers, and fur. They do not eat synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon. The larvae can also survive on food crumbs, pet hair, and dead insects.
How Do Moths Damage Clothes?
When the larvae of clothes-eating moths feed on clothes, they create holes and leave behind a web-like substance. The damage to clothes is usually not noticeable until it is too late. The larvae can also damage other items such as carpets, furniture, and curtains.
Preventing Moth Damage
Preventing moth damage is important to protect your clothes and other items. Here are some tips to prevent moth damage:
- Store clothes in sealed containers or bags
- Clean clothes before storing them
- Use mothballs or cedar chips in storage containers
- Vacuum carpets, furniture, and curtains regularly
- Remove any food crumbs or pet hair
What to Do if You Have Moth Damage?
If you have moth damage, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are some steps to take:
- Inspect all items for damage
- Remove any larvae or webbing
- Wash or dry clean damaged items
- Store cleaned items in sealed containers or bags
- Use moth repellents in storage containers
Conclusion
So, do moths eat clothes? Yes, only the larvae of webbing clothes moths and casemaking clothes moths eat clothes, but adult moths do not. Preventing moth damage is important to protect your clothes and other items. If you have moth damage, take immediate action to prevent further damage.