How to Control & Clean Pantry Moths

Larvae can make their way into homes in bags of dry foods like dog food.

The Indian meal moth is a common pest of pantries and is found throughout the United States. Adults have a wingspan ranging from 1/2 to 3/4 inch and are easily recognized by their coppery red wingtips. Larvae, commonly found in grain products like flour, cereal, baking mixes and pet food, are cream colored with pink or green tints. Larvae encase themselves in a protective tunnel of silk as they feed and often homeowners will find silky mats of cast skins and excrement in their food. Controlling these pests takes diligence, but is possible.

Things You'll Need

• Garbage bags
• Vacuum or broom
• Bucket
• Rag
• Soapy water
• Airtight plastic containers
• Pheromone traps

Instructions

1. Identify and destroy all sources of infestation. According to Colorado State University the range of items the Indian meal moth can infest is broad. Check all grains, nuts, dried fruits, dried flowers, pet food and birds seed for larvae, webbing, cast skins or excrement. Seal any infested items in garbage bags and remove them from the house.

2. Vacuum or sweep up any spilled food, dust or debris in your pantry area. Thorough cleaning is critical. Larvae can live off very small amounts of food and are quite adept at locating it. Vacuum all shelves, cupboards and any floor space where food products were stored. Wash all vacuumed surfaces with hot soapy water.

3. Store food in airtight, plastic containers to prevent larvae from locating it. Even after you've cleaned, you're likely to have adults still flying around your house -- so taking this precaution is critical in avoiding re-infestation.

4. Trap adult males with pheromone traps. These traps are commercially available and attract male moths with female pheromones. Since using insecticides around the home is unsafe, pheromone traps can provide an effective control alternative and help reduce populations.

5. Inspect all food items you bring into your home carefully to avoid re-infestation. Do not purchase any items with torn or punctured bags or boxes. These items could contain Indian moth larvae. As you transfer items from bags or boxes to plastic containers inspect them for any signs of infestation.

References

• Ohio State University Extension; Indianmeal Moth; William F. Lyon
• Colorado State University Extension; Indian Meal Moth; W. Cranshaw