Bug Identification Database

Clothes Moths

Clothes moths are small (1/3 inch) and are rarely seen. They prefer to hide in dark places, in the seams of the fabrics and clothes their larvae are consuming.

When startled they fly weakly and then settle quickly into a dark place once again. If you see small moths flying freely about in a well lit place these are not clothes moths, they are grain moths. See our article on grain moths for control of the grain moth and their larvae.

Clothes moth larvae are so small as to be nearly invisible. The damage done by these larvae can be quite severe however. Disintegration of a fabric around a button hole or seam is usually the first sign of a clothes moth infestation. The larvae will feed upon any animal product including wool, felt, chamois, suede, or silk. They can destroy items such as wool rugs, wool suits, cashmere sweaters, couches and other furniture.