What Are Pantry Moths?

Pantry moths, also known as Indianmeal moths, are small but pesky intruders that can become a problem if they get into pantries or other food storage areas. These moths lay their eggs in stored pantry products, including cereal grains, pasta, dried fruit, nuts, and candy.

Adult moths are tiny - 1/4 to 3/8 inch in length - with a wingspan of 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Females will lay hundreds of eggs that hatch as larvae - tiny white caterpillars that measure less than 1/2 inch long.

As the pantry moth larvae eat through your products, they spin small, sticky webs. Webbing is usually the first visible sign of infestation. Don't delay remedying the situation if you see it anywhere inside your pantry or on your products.

If your pantry has recently become home to pantry moths, acting quickly and taking the necessary steps to prevent a full infestation is crucial to combatting the problem. They may be small, but pantry moths can quickly become exasperating and difficult to eradicate without professional help.

Once you have identified that panty moths are present, discard the affected food in air-tight bags and thoroughly clean the pantry from top to bottom – including shelves, walls, and other cracks and crevices. Be sure to vacuum pantry shelves and corners thoroughly and wipe down surfaces. Store remaining pantry items in sealed containers and consistently check expiration dates. Expired items in your pantry make you more susceptible to a pantry moth infestation.

Other control methods include pantry moth traps and natural insect repellents like bay leaves or essential oils. Most of the time, pantry moths gain access to your pantry through food items that were contaminated before being brought into the home. After grocery shopping, always open and inspect your items before putting them away.

Groceries are expensive enough; don't let these pests help themselves to a portion. With patience and attention to detail, this pesky pest can be taken care of for good!

Does fighting off indoor pests eat away at your time? Let the outdoor pros do the work in your backyard. Contact your local Mosquito Squad today!