What To Do When You Have A Pantry Moth Problem?

Pantry moths, also known as Indian meal moths, can be a frustrating and persistent problem in any household. These small moths are attracted to stored food products, such as cereal, flour, pasta, and pet food. They can lay their eggs in these food items, and before you know it, your pantry is infested with tiny larvae. For detailed information on what to do when you have a pantry moth problem, read the blog post till the end. 

What Are Pantry Moths?

Pantry moths, also known as Indian meal moths, are small moths that are commonly found in households. They are attracted to stored food products, such as cereal, flour, pasta, and pet food. The adult moths are about 1/2 inch long and have a wingspan of about 3/4 inch. They are typically greyish-brown with a copper lustre on the outer two-thirds of their wings. The larvae, which are in the destructive stage, are small, white worms that can be found crawling in pantry foods.

Things To Do When You Have A Pantry Moth Problem

Inspection Of Area

If you suspect you have a pantry moth problem, the first step is to thoroughly inspect all of your stored food products. Look for small, silken webs in the corners of packages, as well as small, white larvae and adult moths. Discard any infested food items immediately, as well as any food that is past its expiration date or that you suspect may be contaminated.

Clean Your Pantry

Next, clean your pantry thoroughly. This includes wiping down all surfaces with a solution of warm water and dish soap, vacuuming all corners and crevices, and discarding any old, unused food items that may be harbouring eggs or larvae. Be sure to empty and clean your vacuum cleaner bag or canister to prevent re-infestation.

Prevention

To prevent future infestations, consider storing your food in airtight containers or in the refrigerator or freezer. This will make it more difficult for moths to lay their eggs and will also protect your food from contamination. Keep your pantry and kitchen clean and free of crumbs, as well as other food debris. You can also use natural repellents such as cedar wood, bay leaves, and cloves. These natural oils are toxic to moths and can be placed inside your pantry or near your food storage to keep moths away.

Address The Source Of The Problem

It is also important to address the source of the problem, which can be from the infestation from the outdoors or from a nearby food source that attracts the moths. It is best to call a professional pest control service, which can help you identify the source of the infestation and provide appropriate treatment. They may also use pesticides, baits, and other methods to eliminate the moths and their larvae.

In summary, pantry moths can be a frustrating problem, but with a little patience and persistence, you can eliminate them from your home. Start by inspecting and discarding infested food items, cleaning your pantry thoroughly, and storing your food in airtight containers. Use natural repellents to keep moths away, and if the problem persists, consider calling a professional pest control service for help.

Hire Professionals

It is important to note that you should always hire a licensed and experienced professional pest control service for pantry moth infestations. They have the expertise and equipment necessary to safely and effectively eliminate the infestation and prevent it from recurring. They will not only help you in getting rid of them but will also help you in preventing the moths from entering your house in future. 

If you are in search of the best pest control experts in Sydney, you can hire professionals at Mick’s Pest Control. We offer cheap and best pest control services. To hire us, call now on 02 4018 7435.