Clothes Moth
Tineola bisselliella
About the clothes moth
Clothes moths are small, straw-yellow moths that avoid light — which is why they thrive undisturbed in the back of closets, dresser drawers, and attics. The adults don't actually feed; the damage comes from the cream-white larvae, which chew irregular holes through wool, cashmere, silk, fur, feathers, and even taxidermy. Vacuuming thoroughly, dry cleaning or freezing affected items, and using cedar blocks and pheromone traps are the proven control combo.
Quick ID
6–8 mm uniform straw-yellow body, narrow wings with golden hairs; avoids light.
In the Triangle
A real risk in Triangle homes with stored woolens, vintage clothing, and rarely-opened closets.
Think you have clothes moths?
Free inspection from a licensed Castle Exterminators technician — Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary & the Triangle. We'll confirm the species and recommend a treatment plan.
Request Free Inspection (919) 606-8686