How to Get Rid of Clothes Moths in Your Storage Space

Are you noticing small holes and signs of damage in your clothing? Tiny moths may be the culprit. Don’t worry, though—it’s a problem that can be solved! By taking the right steps, you can get rid of clothes moths quickly and easily. In this blog post, we will share our storage expertise for tackling this pesky pest, so that your clothes can stay safe from further damage. By taking the right precautions, you can rid your space from damage risks for the long term. Get started! 

Tips to Get Rid of Clothes Moths Around Your Home & in Your Storage Unit

Identify Your Pests

Have you noticed moths in your home? While some varieties are drawn to your wardrobe, others might be attracted to indoor plants. Only two moth species pose a threat to clothing: the casemaking clothes moth and the webbing clothes moth, both of which are yellow or gray in color and about 1 cm long.

Inspect your garments for any webs left by moths. If you find tiny holes in your clothes, it could indicate that clothes moths have been chewing through the fabric fibers. These moths are particularly attracted to materials like wool, cashmere, and animal fur, and they tend to thrive in dark, humid environments.

Clean the Area Thoroughly

Upon discovering clothes moths in your storage space, follow these steps to clean and prevent further infestation:

1. Empty the Storage Space: Remove all items from the storage area to examine and clean them individually.
2. Vacuum: Thoroughly vacuum the entire storage space, including floors, walls, and corners, to remove moth eggs, larvae, and any debris. Dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag or empty the canister outside your home immediately.
3. Wash or Dry-Clean Clothes: Launder or dry-clean all affected clothing and fabrics according to their care labels. High heat can kill moth eggs and larvae, so use the hottest setting that’s safe for the fabric.
4. Clean Storage Surfaces: Wipe down all surfaces in the storage area, including shelves and walls, with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Allow the space to dry completely before returning your items.

Take Preventative Measures

To keep clothes moths at bay and maintain moth-free storage spaces, implement several preventive steps. For clothes that will be stored for an extended period, use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. As moths thrive in dark areas, ensure proper lighting in the storage space to deter them. Clean surfaces and corners with an all-purpose cleaner and vacuum regularly to avoid the buildup of dirt and dust. These measures will help maintain a moth-free environment for your stored items.

Discover Peace of Mind with Hillside Self Storage

If you want a worry-free storage experience, a simple solution is just around the corner. Hillside Self Storage offers premier climate-controlled storage units, so your belongings are well-protected from pests and environment changes. Located on Hillside Road in Amarillo, TX, we provide a large selection of self storage options—fit for short-term and long-term needs alike. Look through our available indoor and outdoor storage units to find the perfect fit for your situation and budget!

Our professionals are a quick call, email, or visit away to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started with Hillside Self Storage!

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.