Pantry Moths!

Posted September 22, 2020 by Sarah Malone
Category: Advice

How to get rid of them and stop them from coming back

Nothing will turn you off your food quicker than finding a bug in it.

Bugs are known to carry around bacteria and diseases and can also just be disgusting to find but anyone who has had pantry moths know exactly how sneaky and persistent they really can be.

Pantry moths get their name as they are found mainly in the kitchen or areas where grain is stored and the most common types found are the Indian Meal Moth and The Mediterranean Flour Moth.

It started off just one moth. No problem, we can just get rid of it and the problem is gone. However beware, when there is one moth there is usually more hiding close by. By the time you have only seen that one, chances are you already have an infestation. Once the adult moth is visible, they have already started laying eggs and their larvae are eating away on your things, getting ready to lay eggs of their own.

What to Do Now?

Seal all dry goods

Open and uncovered foods in your pantry is putting an open for business sign out and inviting them in to feed. Ensure that all your dry goods are in sealed containers with tight-fitting lids. Pantry moths generally come into the house with new food from the store, so by having the rest of your food products properly sealed you can help prevent the spread throughout the whole pantry.

How to Get rid of Moths

Follow these Dos and Don’ts steps to help eliminate the infestation in your home.

• DO Inspect every packet of food. Moths have even been found in sealed boxes and bags so ensure that you check them all carefully for any signs of infestation.
• DON’T Miss spots you think may not be infected. Check lolly bowls, pet foods and treats, kids’ artwork made from pasta and grains etc.
• DO Check around the cans, jars and lids. Try to look for any possible hiding spot as there may be eggs waiting to hatch.
• DON’T Leave old materials in your pantry. If you use shelf liners or papers in your pantry remove and thorough clean with soapy water or replace completely.
• DO Clean the infected areas thoroughly. Vacuum around all surfaces such as floors, door trimming, shelves, any gaps and holes and shelf-supports.
• DON’T Forget to clean walls, door hinges and jams and flooring.
• DO Clean out garbage bins and vacuum bags to ensure that the moths don’t return after al your cleaning.

Pest Alert also has a few products available to help make this task more successful including surface sprays once the area has been cleaned and pheromone traps to help break the breeding cycle.

If you would like any further information please contact our office.