Expert Tips: How to Get Rid of Clothes Moths in Your Storage Space

Looking for a way to get rid of those pesky clothes moths that have created a home in your storage space? When people go through their belongings for spring cleaning, this is a frequently asked problem. When you’re sifting through your stuff for spring cleaning, clothes moths are not exactly welcome guests. There are things you can do to address the problem and prevent further damage. Look for holes in clothing and fabrics that have been kept in a dark place. Follow Almighty Storage’s recommendations below on how to get rid of clothes moths and prevent them from entering your storage unit.

How to Get Rid of Clothes Moths (in Home Storage & Storage Units)

Identify the Moths

Do you actually have clothes moths? If you notice a moth in your home, do not worry right away. Many moths that might find their way into your home are after plants, not your clothing. Only two moth species are a threat to your clothes: the casemaking clothes moth and the webbing clothes moth—both a yellow or gray color, about 1 cm long.

Next, look for holes. You will be able to identify a clothes moth by the web left behind on the material. The moths’ babies are actually the root of the problem, not the adult moths. They prefer dark, humid spaces and prefer to eat materials like wool, cashmere, and fur that come from animals.

Be Sure to Clean Everything

After you’ve figured out what caused the damage, go through what’s salvageable. Some components, sadly, will have to be thrown away, but others may be revived with a warm wash or trip to the dry cleaner. Before washing your clothing, check the tags! In addition to washing your clothing, you should clean any storage area in your home. If you have carpeted flooring in your room, vacuum it thoroughly—ending by immediately tossing out the vacuum bag. A shampoo or steam cleaning will also aid in eliminating any remaining insects.

Prevent Future Clothes Moths with These Tips

Clothes moths thrive in temperatures over 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep this in mind while putting away your clothes. To prevent a similar scenario from occurring again, make sure you provide clothing moths with the ideal conditions. You may do so by brightening up your environment and providing ventilation where feasible. This might be achieved by visiting your storage unit more frequently to give it some time outside with the door open and allow for some air flow. It would also be helpful to rearrange items in your storage to prevent them from sitting for extended periods of time. When you are packing up your items for storage, choose sealed bags or bins. A garment bag is also a safe option—just tape up any spaces that could potentially have holes, like seams. Better to be safe than sorry!

Find Self Storage at Almighty Storage in Prairieville, LA

When you decide that you need more storage space outside of your home, consult with Almighty Storage to find your solution. In addition to providing easy-to-use online resources that can help you find the perfect storage unit, we also have skilled professionals on hand to assist you. We can answer your questions regarding self storage and the local area and help you devise a storage plan for your belongings. With temperature-controlled storage units, convenient drive-up storage units, and safe and secure covered and enclosed parking spaces, Almighty Storage is Prairieville’s ultimate storage destination.

This year, put your personal belongings in good hands with Almighty Storage. See how a little extra storage space can make a huge difference in your home organization!

Helpful Resources

FAQ| Guide to Online Storage Rentals | Self Storage Tips | Storage Calculator

Katie Mest

About the Author: Katie Mest is an SEO Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys camping, hiking, and exploring the outdoors with her newly adopted Greyhound rescue, Titan.