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Step 1
These moths are brought into the home from grocery stores, typically in dry food packages. If you see moths in the store, or tiny round holes in packaging, the store may have an infestation. Always check your dry goods like cereal, rice and pasta.
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Step 2
If you see these moths in your home, kill them on sight. A good swat is all it takes. There is really no pesticide that will work, so you need to find and kill them manually.
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Step 3
Try to locate the area where you see the most moths. Check the area for signs if infestation. Signs include seeing many moths, pupa, or small web-like masses. You will want to destroy all moths and larvae that you find. Remove all food items, and clean the area with hot water and vinegar to remove eggs and feces.
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Step 4
Pin moths bore into food packages, so look for cardboard and paper containers with small round holes. The moths will feed and breed in their food sources. You can also notice moth infested food by the fact that you will see dusty, powdered remains of the food on shelves and inside the packages. Dispose of any food that they have invaded. Be sure to remove it from the home, not just to the trash can.
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Step 5
Seal all food in glass or sealable plastic containers. Indian Meal moths can bore into cardboard, paper and plastic wrap. It is a good idea to put all food products into sealed containers as soon as you get them home from the store. Be aware that the moths can also infest pet food including dog food, cat food and bird seed.
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Step 6
Keep pet areas free of food bits. Replace pet food daily and clean up any bits lying on the floor or in the cage. Meal moths will feed on and breed even in pet areas. Also, dispose of bird seed remnants outside the home, as the moths will breed in trash cans that contain food sources.
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Step 7
Keep food sealed, and kill all moths you see. It can take a while to get rid of these pests. Be sure to check clothing or fabric near infested areas, as the moths will lay eggs and pupate on hanging fabric. Wash any affected items in hot water to kill larvae. Once the infestation is over, just be sure to check new items you buy to prevent a recurrence.
