Where do clothing moths live?

Updated on January 15th, 2025

Did you know? Clothing moths aren't just drawn to your favorite wool sweater or cashmere scarf. They're also attracted to the keratin found in unexpected sources, such as dead animals, birds and rodents. Infestations can originate from bird nests or animal carcasses hidden in attics, chimneys or wall cavities—providing a ready source of food for larvae and supporting an infestation.  

Meet the culprits: Webbing and casemaking clothing moths

Two unassuming yet highly destructive species, the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the casemaking clothes moth (Tinea pellionella), are quietly wreaking havoc in closets around the world. Though adult moths may seem harmless as they flit about, their larvae are the real culprits—relentlessly munching through wool, silk, cashmere, leather and more.

Why are they so drawn to your favorite garments? These natural fibers are packed with keratin, a protein that larvae can digest thanks to their specialized systems. This unique ability allows them to thrive, leaving behind their infamous "holes of destruction." With an ever-increasing appetite, these tiny invaders can transform your prized pieces into costly losses.

Where do clothing moths frequently live? 

Common hiding spots for clothing moths include closets, wardrobes, drawers and storage areas where clothing, blankets, rugs or upholstery made of natural fibers are kept. Clothing moths are attracted to dark, undisturbed areas with a moderate level of humidity.

Closets: Closets are inherently dark. They often go undisturbed, providing freedom from human activity.  Additionally, these areas offer moths a large space with multiple hiding spots and often contain a high concentration of clothing, which increases the chances of moths finding suitable materials for their larvae to feed on. And let's not forget the limited airflow that permeates these secretive chambers. Moths, you see, revel in stillness.

Wardrobes: Wardrobes typically have more hidden areas compared to closets. Their compartments, drawers, shelves and intricate designs create multiple secluded spots where clothing moths can lay eggs and larvae can hide and feed on fabrics.

Drawers: Drawers can also be attractive to clothing moths, especially if they contain clothing made from natural fibers. However, the limited space and regular disturbance associated with opening and closing drawers make them less favorable compared to closets and wardrobes. 

Storage areas or containers: Storage areas—such as attics, basements or other secluded spaces—and storage containers, like suitcases or antique trunks, often house keratin-rich materials such as clothing, blankets or textiles. These spaces provide a rich food source for moths and their larvae, especially when undisturbed. Wooden trunks, fabric-lined chests and suitcases with leftover textiles are particularly appealing. The dark, secluded conditions make these areas ideal for breeding and larvae development.

In these spaces, where do I look for adult clothing moths, larvae and eggs? 

• Behind hanging clothes: Moths can hide towards the back of the closet or wardrobe where they are undisturbed.
• Within folded clothing: Moths may lay eggs in the folds and creases of clothing.
• In pockets or cuffs: Small openings in clothing, such as pockets or cuffs, can be egg-laying spots.
• On closet walls, shelves or drawers: Moths might attach eggs or larvae casings to these surfaces.
• Along baseboards: Gaps or cracks in baseboards or edges of storage areas provide hiding spots for moths.
• In accessories, shoes and bags: Items made from natural fibers can be infested by moths.
• Within storage boxes: Cardboard boxes, unsealed containers with small openings, or shoeboxes with wool or felt linings are vulnerable to moths. 

Where else do clothing moths live? 

While keratin-rich clothing items in closets, wardrobes, drawers and storage areas may be a clothing moth’s primary target, these pests are not limited to garments. Natural fiber materials like cashmere rugs, natural fiber tapestries, wool carpets, silk curtains and horsehair-stuffed furniture are also at risk, making these areas fair game for their fabric-devouring tendencies. Additionally, nests in attics or chimneys—such as those made by birds—can provide a hidden breeding ground for larvae, as they are rich in keratin.

When inspecting your home for signs of clothing moths, also focus on these items and their hidden areas:

• Undersides and backs: Lift or flip these items to inspect their undersides and backs. Moths may hide, lay eggs or form cocoons in these concealed areas.
• Edges and seams: Examine the edges and seams of these items. These hidden crevices provide ideal spots for moths to lay eggs and seek refuge.
• Tufts and fringes: Inspect tufted areas, fringes or tassels on rugs, carpets and curtains. Moths may lay eggs or hide in these intricate sections.
• Between layers: If your upholstered furniture has removable cushions or covers, separate them and inspect the layers underneath. Moths may hide or lay eggs in these concealed spaces.
• In attics or chimneys: Clothing moths may inhabit bird nests or animal carcasses, which are rich in keratin and provide a hidden breeding ground for larvae.

Tip: Did you know that pet bedding made from wool or other natural fibers can attract clothing moths? The felt inside pianos, with its wool composition, can also serve as a surprising hiding spot for these pests.

Will the moths, their larvae and their eggs be visible? What signs do I look for? 

During an inspection for clothing moths, it is unlikely that you will directly spot the moths themselves. These elusive creatures are primarily active at night and have a remarkable ability to hide. However, you can detect their presence by focusing on the following signs:

• Larvae: Larvae are small, white, worm-like creatures measuring about 1/16 to 1/2 inch long. They move slowly, are usually found on or near their food source and may appear in clusters if the infestation is severe.
• Cocoons: Cocoons are silk-like casings, slightly larger than the larvae and often located in fabric folds, seams or crevices. These protective structures house the larvae as they transition into adult moths and are a telltale sign of an active infestation.
• Visible signs of damage: Look for irregular holes or chewed fibers in clothing, rugs or upholstery. Webbing clothes moths create silk threads, webbing or small tunnels as protective shelters. 
•  Empty moth casings: These remnants of the pupal stage are light brown, papery and slightly rigid to the touch. They are typically about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long and may be found near their food source or in hidden areas. Casings are often clustered, indicating multiple moths have completed  their lifecycle in the area.

How do I protect my clothes from clothing moths? 

To protect your clothing from moths, store keratin-rich garments in sealed containers or garment bags, regularly inspect and clean your closet, air out stored items, vacuum the space and use Cedar Planks. Cedar Planks are your first line of defense against the notorious clothing moth. Made from pure eastern red cedar wood and sourced from renewable forests right here in the United States, Cedar Planks provide four-season protection for wool, fur, leather and other keratin-rich fabrics. 

By staying vigilant and taking steps to safeguard your home and belongings, you can keep clothing moths at bay and preserve the integrity of your treasured fabrics.

Note: If you already have a clothing moth infestation, follow these steps to get rid of clothing moths and make a purchase of Dr. Killigan's Clothing Moth Traps straight away.