A: Typically, the heat of the dryer is fairly effective at killing moth eggs and larvae.
Running the garments through the dryer for an hour should be enough to kill most, if not all, of the moth eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults that might be threatening your wardrobe.
However, if you are looking for a chemical-free way to kill clothing moths, the best way to deal with them is by cooking or freezing the larvae and eggs. To kill clothing moth larvae and eggs by heat, place the items in an oven or food dryer at a temperature higher than 120° F (50° C) for at least 30 minutes.
These eggs mature quickly, usually within 4 to 10 days, and subsequently hatch within 10 to 21 days. Damaging larvae hatch. These destructive larvae feast (and feast). Webbing clothes moths ferociously feed for 35 days or more, whereas case-bearing clothes moths fiercely feed for 68 to 87 days.
Moth eggs, larvae and adult moths can all be killed by a hot-water wash cycle or by dry cleaning. And any that remain in the closet can be vacuumed up or removed by scrubbing.
The most common and effective method for killing all stages of clothes moths in clothing, blankets, and other washable articles is to thoroughly launder them for 20 to 30 minutes in water that is at least 120°F.
Steam cleaners are extremely useful for getting creases out of delicate items that can't be ironed, but the temperature of a steam cleaner means that it will also kill moth larvae. We stock professional steam cleaners and we use ours religiously.
The eggs do not remain dormant for long periods, although hatching is delayed by cool temperatures. It is a myth that eggs can remain dormant for long periods and suddenly produce new infestations. The caterpillar (larva) stage feeds on wool soon after egg hatch.
Lavender — Lavender is a widely-loved moth repellent for good reason. Its floral scent is delightful to humans but repulsive to moths. Our 'Protect Me' Scent Bags can be placed in closets and drawers to protect your garments. Plus, they impart a lovely fragrance to all surrounding clothes.
Eggs Keep the eggs in a small container with the lid closed, so the larvae don't escape when they hatch. If the air is very dry, mist the eggs occasionally. Never put leaves in with the eggs - the leaves give off CO2 and the eggs may suffocate. For the same reason, the container should not be totally airtight.
Iron and steam clothes
Washing and drying clothes won't reliably kill moth eggs, but moth larvae and eggs can be quickly killed with a high heat. They might still be lurking in your carpets but they won't survive on any clothes that are thoroughly ironed or steamed.
What kills moth eggs and larvae? Residual moth sprays can be incredibly effective for killing moth larvae and eggs. You can also kill moth larvae and eggs using hot soapy water or by freezing them for at least 72 hours.
Eggs can be killed by soaking them in soapy water for 2 days before discarding them in the trash. Don't just scrape egg masses onto the ground or try to crush them with your shoe as they will survive to hatch next spring.
There are several reasons why vacuuming helps to get rid of moths. The biggest reason is because it gets rids of moth eggs and larvae as part of insect control. Carpet moths live near and around carpets. They lay eggs and these later hatch into larvae, which eventually develop into caterpillars.
Unwashed clothes have a greater build-up of contaminants, especially oils and grease. Lint from these clothes will be more combustible and can ignite when hot. Never turn the dryer off before the cool down period is over. Fires have been caused from clothing being left bunched up while still hot inside the dryer.
Clothes in dressers or nearby closets may also need to be treated. If the items are clean, they don't have to be washed, but should be treated in the dryer on high heat for 30 minutes to kill bed bugs and bed bug eggs. Place these items in plastic bags. Mark the bags “Dryer only” and seal tightly.
Moth eggs die at temperatures over 120°F. Luckily, most of us have something handy that reaches well over that temperature all summer long, and won't damage either yarns or sweaters in the process.
Wash all clothes and textiles that can be put in the washing machine. This will get rid of any eggs that may have been laid on them. If possible also put the clothes through a hot dryer. Items that cannot be put in a clothes dryer can be put in the freezer for a few days which will also kill any eggs.
Create a barrier and put your clothes in plastic or vacuum bags. "Nothing can't live there because there's no oxygen. Even just sealing them well and airtight will reduce the possibility of moths getting in," adds Kern. These bags can hold blankets, linen, sweaters and other bulky items.
The entire cycle takes roughly 4-6 months. So, a successful moth battle is twofold: kill the tiny, voracious larvae eating through your natural fiber textiles, and kill the moths before they mate, lay more eggs and begin the life cycle again.
Thoroughly clean the clothes you do keep.
Dry cleaning is the most effective method of killing moth larvae, and it's worth the expense for wool sweaters and jackets you don't want to risk ruining.
White vinegar kills Carpet Moths through an acidic cleansing process. It changes the pH levels of any surface that it touches, and moth eggs or larvae that are exposed to white vinegar will not be able to survive in this acidic environment.
Peppermint oil has been known to effectively repel Pantry Moths. So, you may want to wipe down your shelves with this fragrant oil. Rosemary, clove, lavender, thyme, and Eucalyptus may also be helpful. Each of these natural repellents for pantry moths is safe to use around food items!