A Look at "Natural" Moth Control & Prevention.

It is difficult to eliminate moths in a home once a moth infestation occurs, especially if the use of insecticides is not an option. It is much easier to prevent an infestation from occurring, than it is to get rid of the moths once they become established. In other words, by taking a proactive approach, moths aren’t likely to become established in the first place. The least toxic, eco-friendly methods for eliminating an infestation are the same methods used to prevent an infestation.

You must be thorough with sanitation, such as, to never leave uneaten pet food exposed, and never store unprotected dried products such cereals, for more than a few weeks. With diligence, it is possible to eliminate an infestation of moths without using insecticides, but expect it to take several months because of the moths varied life cycles.

• Remove or eliminate all food sources attractive to moths. That would include pet food, wild bird food, dried flower arrangements and any other open containers of food or snacks.

• Thoroughly clean kitchen cabinets and pantries. Place all dried packaged food, such as cereal, nuts, oatmeal, pasta, dried beans, bread, crackers, snacks, potato chips etc into sealed, airtight jars or other sturdy, airtight containers. If possible, store these products in your freezer, especially for long term storage.

• Inspect, and open if necessary, all packages of the items mentioned above, to look for any signs of insect presence. Discard any suspected food.

• Search closets and other areas where clothing is stored for signs of moths, or their larvae. Place natural fiber clothing, such as wool or cotton, in sealed, airtight containers.

• Set pheromone moth traps. Be sure to set traps for both Indian Meal moths, and Clothing moths. It also makes sense to set pheromone traps for tobacco beetles. The pheromone traps only attract the males of the species, and are an excellent detection tool to help locate where the moths are most active in a home. Since the males are caught in the trap, the breeding cycle can be disrupted.