Clothes moths are like uninvited guests that sneak into your closet to feast on your favourite sweaters! These pesky intruders love dark, undisturbed spaces and feast on natural fibers like wool, silk, and fur. If you’ve ever pulled out a stored item of clothing only to find holes and webbing, you’re not alone.

Getting rid of clothing moths requires a strategic approach that goes beyond simple cleaning. Here’s an in-depth look at the five tips mentioned earlier, with added expert advice to ensure your efforts are effective.

Let’s break down how to spot them, stop them, and keep them out for good.

This post is part of a multi-series of quick DIY Tips. Once you’re done here, check out some of our tips related to getting rid of Fruits Flies, Fleas, Carpet Beetles, & more. Good Luck!

TL;DR

🔄 Stay vigilant: Regular checks and maintenance help prevent future issues.
🐛 Know the signs: Look for holes, silky webbing, eggs, and larvae in clothes.
🧺 Clean is key: Wash or dry clean garments before storing to avoid attracting moths.
📦 Store smart: Use airtight containers with cedar balls or lavender sachets.
❄️ Use natural remedies: Freeze infested items, refresh cedar/lavender, and set pheromone traps.
🧼 Vacuum often: Focus on closets, baseboards, and dark corners.
🧪 Avoid mothballs if possible: Use safer, natural alternatives instead.
🧑‍🔧 Call in the pros: If infestation is bad, our technicians at Westside Pest Control can help.

Step #1 – Know Your Enemy

Before reaching for traps or sprays, it’s important to confirm what you’re dealing with. Clothes moths aren’t the ones you see flitting toward light bulbs, that’s a different breed. Clothes moths prefer the dark and stay hidden.

clothes moths

You’re likely dealing with either the webbing clothes moth or the case-making clothes moth. Both are tiny (about 1/2 inch), pale, and their larvae are the real troublemakers.

Telltale signs of an infestation:

  • Silky tunnels or cocoons in your clothes
  • Small white eggs stuck to fabric
  • Adult moths quietly resting in corners

Step #2 – Prevention is Key

The best way to win this battle? Don’t let it start.

Here’s what helps:

  • Keep it clean: Dirty clothes attract moths. Wash or dry clean before storing.
  • Store smart: Use airtight bins and toss in some cedar balls or lavender sachets for good measure.
  • Inspect often: Make it a habit to check closets and storage areas for any signs of damage.

Step #3 – Go Natural First

If you spot signs of moths, start with natural methods that are safe for both your clothes and your home.

  • Freeze it out: Moths and larvae can’t handle cold. Pop infested clothes in a sealed bag and freeze for 24–72 hours.
  • Use cedar and lavender: These natural repellents lose their punch over time—refresh regularly.
  • DIY pheromone traps: These attract and trap the male moths, halting reproduction.

Step #4 – Call in the Pros

If things get out of hand, it’s time to bring in backup.

At Westside Pest Control, our pest experts can provide stronger solutions, including professional-grade traps and insecticides that reach deep into your garments and storage areas—something over-the-counter sprays can’t do.

Step #5 – Stay Vigilant

Once you’ve taken care of the problem, stay on top of it. Regular vacuuming of closets and drawers, especially corners and crevices, helps keep the eggs and larvae out.

Pro Tips

I asked insect specialist, Adam to share his favourite tips for getting rid of these buggers.

Technician Tip:

Extra tip from our technicians: Moths are drawn to sweat and oils left on clothes. Always wash items before storing—and give wool coats a good brush-down.

More pro tips

  1. Vacuum regularly, especially under beds, in closets, and along baseboards.
  2. Use silica gel packs in containers to keep moisture (and mold) away.
  3. Place traps strategically, including in lesser-used areas like basements and attics.
  4. Be careful with mothballs. They’re toxic and only effective in sealed containers. Natural repellents are a safer choice.

What Do Clothes Moths Look Like?

Golden in colour and only about 1/2 inch wide, webbing moths are sneaky and subtle. You won’t catch them buzzing around a light bulb. Their larvae, that creamy-coloured caterpillars with brown heads are the ones doing the damage.

The Verdict?

Dealing with clothes moths isn’t fun, but it’s fixable. Start with good habits. Use natural solutions when you can. And if the infestation gets serious, our technicians at Westside Pest Control are just a call away. Whether it’s Metro Vancouver or beyond, we’ve got you covered.

This post is part of our DIY Pest Tip Series.

Check out more posts on about rats, fruit flies, ants, and more!