Moths can be a major nuisance in the home, whether you are plagued by pantry moths, clothing moths, or simple outdoor moths that find their way inside. Fortunately, you don't have to live with a moth problem. The following tips can help get moths under control and out of your house.
Tip #1: Seal and freeze affected items
Saving your food and clothing is the first order of business once you notice that pantry or clothing moths have moved in.You can use the same tactic for both types of moths. As soon as you notice moths, seal the food or clothing in a plastic bag. For clothing, vacuum bags work well to minimize space. Then, freeze the items for 24 hours. This kills any eggs or larvae. You may want to keep clothing sealed until the moth issue is resolved. As for food, going forward all flour, grains and dried legumes should be frozen for 24 hours as soon as you bring them home. Then, keep your pantry items stored in sealed containers or bags to prevent a future moth infestation.
Tip #2: Vacuum often and wisely
Moth eggs and larva often hide out in carpeting. The easiest way to keep them from hatching and becoming airborne pests is to vacuum often. If you have an active infestation, daily vacuuming is a good idea. Of course, vacuuming isn't enough. The eggs can hatch in your vacuum cleaner bag and within a short time fully developed moths could be escaping the bag and getting into your home. The key to preventing this is to dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag after every use. Seal it in a plastic bag and dispose of it in an outdoor trash can so the moths don't make their way out and into your home again.
Tip #3: Seal hiding places
Carpets aren't the only place where moths may hide once they invade your home. Cracks in baseboards and around molding are another common area for moths to hide and breed in. This is another fix that takes a bit of time but not much expense. Invest in caulk to match either your baseboards, molding, or wall color, then run a bead of caulk along the cracks to seal them against moths. An added benefit is your home will also look nicer with these cracks properly sealed with caulk.
For more help in getting rid of a moth infestation, contact pest control companies in your area.
Share23 July 2018
How often do you double check your front door or make sure that your garage door is closed? Although installing a home security system and giving your children instructions about stranger danger might seem like second nature, some people forget that there are real safety threats sitting around their windowsills. My child was bitten by a poisonous spider a few years ago, and ever since then, I have worked to increase awareness about the importance of pest control. A little pesticide can keep dangerous bugs from seeking refuge in your home and threatening your family. My website discusses different ways to keep your kids safe.