Clothes moths are small tan moths whose larvae feed on wool, cashmere, silk, and other natural fibers. They quietly damage stored clothing and textiles in dark closets and drawers, a familiar problem in Whidbey and Fidalgo homes.
How to identify clothes moths
Adults are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch, plain buff or golden, and avoid light, fluttering in dark closets rather than around lamps. The cream-colored larvae spin silk as they feed.
Behavior & season on Whidbey & Fidalgo
Adults do not feed on fabric; the larvae do, favoring undisturbed wool and silk in dark storage. They thrive on soiled natural fibers and can persist unnoticed in closets, attics, and storage boxes.
Why clothes moths are a problem
Larvae cut holes in valuable wool, cashmere, and silk garments and textiles, often causing significant damage before they are discovered because they work in dark, quiet storage.
Signs of clothes moths activity
- Small buff moths fluttering in closets, avoiding light
- Silky webbing or cases on wool and silk items
- Irregular holes in stored natural-fiber clothing
- Damage concentrated in dark, undisturbed storage
How Salty Dog treats clothes moths
We identify and treat the infested storage areas, target larvae and harborage, and advise on cleaning and storage that protects vulnerable textiles. Learn more about our Residential Pest Control service, or browse the full Pest Library.
Reviewed by Matthew — Salty Dog Pest Control. WSDA-licensed structural pest applicator (License #101709). Veteran- and family-owned, serving Whidbey Island, Fidalgo Island, and west Skagit County.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my wool sweaters getting holes?
Clothes moth larvae feed on wool, cashmere, and silk in dark storage. Clean, sealed storage and treating the source stops the damage.
The moths do not go near my lights — is that normal?
Yes. Unlike pantry moths, clothes moths avoid light and stay in dark closets, which is why they often go unnoticed.
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