Common Moth Species

(Tineola bisselliella)

The Common Clothes Moth larvae is responsible for making irregular holes in fabrics. These larvae feed on natural materials such as wool, silk, fur, and feathers, which makes garments, upholstery, and carpets especially vulnerable. They avoid illuminated areas and tend to remain hidden in dark, undisturbed spaces such as under furniture or inside wardrobes, making moth infestations difficult to detect in their early stages.

The adult moths, although visible, do not cause direct harm, as it is the larvae that cause the damage by digesting the ‘keratin’ found in animal fibres. Therefore, early identification of moths and monitoring of larvae activity are crucial steps for effective moth prevention and to avoid extensive damage to household textiles. The presence of silk webbing, shed larval skins, or even small piles of dust (larval droppings) may also indicate a Common Clothes Moth infestation, guiding homeowners to take timely and appropriate action.

(Tinea pellionella)

The Case-Bearing Clothes moth makes more regular holes in fabrics. This species is distinguishable from others by the larvae’s unique habit of creating and carrying a portable case, constructed from the very fibres they infest. As the larvae grow, they enlarge their case and continue to feed on natural materials, particularly wool, fur, feathers, and sometimes stored animal-based products.

Infestations are often identified by the neat, round holes left in garments and textiles, which make the damage very recognisable compared to the irregular patterns seen with other moth species. So, closely inspecting susceptible items for these signs of moths casings and characteristic neat round holes, can support early detection and more targeted intervention, limiting the damage and preserving valuable possessions.

(Hofmannophila pseudospretella)

It is very common to see Brown House moths in your home. This species is well adapted to scavenging in indoor environments, thriving particularly in areas where animal-based materials are stored or used. The Brown House moth tends to seek out dark, undisturbed spaces such as cupboards, lofts, or behind furniture, making it easy for small populations to go unnoticed until damage appears.

Although adult moths are often spotted fluttering at night, it is their larvae that pose the greatest risk to fabrics, as they feed on wool, leather, feathers, and even food residues. Regularly inspecting vulnerable areas and monitoring for telltale signs of moths, such as adults or larvae, can help prevent major infestations and protect stored textiles and household items.

(Endrosis sarcitrella)

White-Shouldered House moths are generally less damaging to textiles. Unlike other pest moth species, their larvae have a more varied diet, often feeding on organic debris, food scraps, and detritus rather than solely targeting clothing, carpets, or upholstery.

Consequently, these moths are commonly found in kitchens, storerooms, or unheated outbuildings, where decaying matter or accessible stored food products may attract them. The larvae spin silken cocoons in secluded corners, sometimes mingling with dust and organic residues. Although their potential for textile damage is low, regular cleaning and sealing of cracks and crevices can further reduce the chance of infestation, helping to protect household supplies and prevent a wider moth problem within your property.

(Plodia Interpunctella)