What does an exterminator do for pantry moths?

Author: Mariam Koepp IV  |  Last update: Friday, October 17, 2025

We will come out, inspect and treat for the adult, flying pantry moths. We want to make sure we treat the areas in the cupboards with a residual spray so that it's long lasting. Our goal is to get them under control, not just eradicate the ones you see. One important thing we do is place pheromone traps.

Can an exterminator get rid of pantry moths?

Pantry moth infestations typically require the services of pest control professionals; it is not advisable that homeowners utilize pesticides to treat an infestation on their own. However, after identifying an infestation, it can be helpful to clean the affected area.

How does an exterminator get rid of moths?

For the fabric moth pests, non-chemical methods e.g. vacuuming/sanitation, proper storage, and conventional materials e.g. liquid sprays and dusts are commonly used. Monitoring using various traps including pheromone traps where applicable is done thereafter to ensure moth problems do not persist.

How long does it take to get rid of pantry moth infestation?

Pantry moths are harmless and don't bite, but they can infiltrate food items that are not sealed airtight. An infestation of pantry moths requires throwing away affected items, cleaning up, and securing other food items. It can take up to a month to get rid of pantry moths by disrupting their lifecycle.

Why are pantry moths so hard to get rid of?

The larvae and pupa of pantry moths can survive for months without food, which makes eliminating an infestation difficult.

How to Eliminate Indian Meal Moths like a Pro! DIY Pantry Pest Control

How often do you change pantry moth traps?

Moth larvae might continue to pupate and hatch as moths from late Fall through to next Spring! For this reason we recommend keeping traps 'active' by replacing any old Strips with new Replacement Strips every 3 months.

Is there a spray that gets rid of moths?

Ozmo Moth Killer Spray, 250ml, Kills Moths, Eggs and Larvae, Safe for Home, Fragrance - Free, Use in Wardrobes and Drawers, Hard Surfaces, Carpets, Fabrics, Curtains, Soft Furnishings.

How long does a moth infestation last?

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.

Do I have to throw everything away if I have pantry moths?

Inspect your pantry and toss out any infested food. The National Pest Control Center advises that the items most at risk of infestation include cereal, grains, beans, nuts, flour, dried fruit, birdseed, animal food, spices, tea, chocolate, and candy.

Is there a bomb for pantry moths?

Do Bug Bombs Work on Moths? For the most part, yes. The formula used to create most bug bombs and fumigators will work on moths of all kinds as well. The reason for this is the ingredients used within the bug fogger or bomb.

What is the lifespan of a pantry moth?

A pantry moth's life cycle goes through four stages. They can live from 30 to 300 days. A fairly short life, but when you consider one moth can lay up to 400 eggs, then that one moth can do considerable damage to your pantry and the food it contains.

Can you starve out pantry moths?

Starving pantry moths can be difficult, as they can survive without food for several weeks.

How do you find out where pantry moths are coming from?

Although pantry moths can enter via doors and windows, most infestations probably start when we inadvertently bring home eggs and caterpillars in our dried foods. Kitchens full of unsealed containers and spilled food create an irresistible smorgasbord for female moths looking for the ideal place to lay eggs.

Will Terminix get rid of moths?

At Terminix, moth control is included in our general pest control plans. We also treat other common pests, such as mice, rats, roaches, spiders, and ants. Our pest control service includes a comprehensive interior and exterior inspection and treatment.

How do I get rid of moths ASAP?

Scrub areas you suspect to be infested - using an effective moth killer spray, scrub and clean including crevices and corners. Remove infested items - Items that can't be cleaned should be discarded. Dust and vacuum - floors, crevices and anywhere you suspect moth activity.

What do moths hate the most?

The best natural moth-repellent essential oil is cedar. Cedar oil is strong and effective and the moths don't like it! Other good essential oils to repel moths include lavender, rosemary, lemon, bergamot, sage, and mint.

What smell do house moths hate?

Moths tend to dislike lavender and Cedar. Although lavender smells great to humans, it is highly repellent to insects like moths. Cedar is another great choice. Cedar masks the smell of natural fabrics and also gives clothing and linens a fresh, fragrant aroma.

How to get rid of Pantry Moths forever?

To permanently get rid of Pantry Moths, you will have to carefully deal with your infestation at its source. This often involves cleaning out all of your shelves, emptying drawers, wiping surfaces and walls, and scouring the outside of product packaging.

Do exterminators get rid of moths?

When moths become a pest problem, your pest management professional will provide a thorough inspection to accurately identify the pest moth. Based on the inspection findings, your pest management professional will develop an effective treatment plan to resolve the pest pressures.

What is the best moth trap for closets?

Our best for closets pick, MothPrevention Powerful Clothes Moth Traps, includes hangers, making them an ideal choice for keeping moths out of closets.

Where is the best place to put pantry moth traps?

Thus, place your traps in darker, quieter, low-traffic locations. If there is constant airflow, the pheromones in our premium traps can permeate up to 100 feet.

Is there a spray for pantry moths?

PESTXPERT PANTRY MOTH PRODUCTS

Pro-Spray Flying aerosol is great to have on hand to spray any moths seen flying around the house.

Do pantry moths go in the fridge?

In the quest to uncover pantry moths' preferred hideouts, the spaces behind kitchen appliances—like refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers—emerge as prime locations. These appliances, especially those seldom moved or cleaned behind, provide a secluded environment for pantry moths to thrive.

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