Moths belong to the order of nocturnal butterflies and aren’t exactly welcome guests in our homes. While this species of butterfly doesn’t harm anyone in nature, the clothes moth destroys the contents of our closets. The larva of this insect, which measures six to nine millimeters, eats holes and creates bare patches in fabrics. But carpets are also on these pests’ menu, particularly in floor cracks or under furniture. That’s where these cute little creatures can feast undisturbed. Food stored for long periods can also be infested by moths. The clothes moth prefers living spaces and storage areas, and the female lays between 100 and 250 eggs. After the caterpillar hatches, it takes another 60 days for it to develop into a fully-formed moth. Since the larvae need the protein keratin as food, clothing made of a high percentage of wool is particularly sought after by moths. But what can be done to combat these pests without harming the environment?
Fight Moths the Natural Way!
These seemingly harmless creatures can cause a lot of damage in your closet. Here are plenty of tips and tricks for getting rid of moths naturally:
- Coat the inside of the closet with turpentine or lavender oil—it keeps moths away!
- Fill small sachets with lavender and place them in the closet
- Sprinkle pepper on woolen garments—of course, this is only an option for items that won't be worn for a while
- Dried orange peels also repel moths
- Wrap woolen clothes in newspaper
- According to ancient traditions, walnut leaves are also said to repel pests
- Clean, fresh clothes attract fewer butterflies than dirty pants and tops
- Regularly beat out and air out rugs, furs, and clothes, then lay them out in the sun
Parasitic Wasps in the Fight Against Moths
The online portal schlupfwespen.net provides information on a completely biological method of pest control. Food and clothes moths are combated using their natural enemy—the parasitic wasp. These tiny creatures, measuring only about 0.4 mm, seek out the pests’ eggs and lay their own eggs inside them. The wasp’s larva feeds on the contents, thereby destroying the egg. This effectively puts a stop to the moths’ reproduction. Once there are no more eggs left, the parasitic wasps disappear as well. The website schlupfwespen.net provides more information on individual moth species, as well as detailed instructions on natural pest control, for homeowners struggling with infestations.
