Moths are remarkably resilient animals with long life cycles. They have the uncanny ability to thrive in the most inhospitable conditions, from frozen tundra to barren desert. Despite their seemingly wayward lives, they really want to settle down in the warmest, most inviting, protein-rich environment of all: your home. In this step, we will make your home so inhospitable to moths that it’s impossible for them to continue breeding there.
- Identify where moths may be breeding. It is unlikely every room in your house is infested. Common “hot zones” include (1) beneath wool carpets, (2) closets, (3) dressers, (4) dog/cat beds, and (5) dusty areas.
- Inspect closets and drawers. After sunset, grab your flashlight and get to work. Since moths are nocturnal, you’re more likely to find them at night. Moths like to hide in the crevices of clothing, so shake out sweaters to find them. Don’t worry, they don’t bite!
- Conduct a full house sweep. It may take several hours, but it must be done to identify where moths are hiding. Look in the dusty, gross areas you never otherwise look; under the fridge, behind walls, and in the attic. Look for cocoons in dust piles.
- Check under your bed, the corners of carpeting, bookshelves, dusty areas, under couches, between cushions, underneath tables, behind your desk, under floorboards, and anywhere else it’s dark and safe for moths to breed. Remember: you’re looking for signs of infestation.
- Thoroughly dust and vacuum your house to remove dust, hair, and potential keratin food sources. Doing so will prevent moths from living there. It cannot be emphasized enough how important this step is!