Pantry Moths (Indian Meal Moths)

Signs You Have Pantry Moths (Indian Meal Moths)

What homeowners spot first

1. Small moths flying in kitchen, especially at night
2. Webbing in grains, cereals, or dried food
3. Cream-colored larvae crawling in pantry
4. Food clumping together in packages
5. Larvae or cocoons in package crevices
6. Adult moths resting on walls/ceilings

Larvae feed on grains, cereals, dried fruit, nuts, pet food, bird seed, and many other stored products. They spin silken webbing in food, often creating clumps. Adults don't eat. They live only to reproduce. Complete lifecycle takes 4-6 weeks, which is why a small problem turns into a big one fast.

Our $49 initial service starts with a full pantry inspection. We pull every infested product, clean and treat the shelves, and set out pheromone traps to monitor and catch the remaining adults. Then we'll target hot spots with a residual application. The catch: long-term control depends on you switching your dry goods to airtight containers from day one.

Where do pantry moths come from?

Most infestations start with moths already present in purchased products. Eggs or larvae hitch a ride in grains, flour, cereals, dried fruit, pet food, or bird seed. They rarely enter homes from outside.

How do I get rid of pantry moths completely?

Complete elimination requires: 1) Remove and inspect ALL dry goods, 2) Discard anything infested or questionable, 3) Thoroughly clean pantry, 4) Store remaining food in airtight containers, 5) Use pheromone traps to catch remaining adults.

Are the moths I see flying the problem?

Flying moths are adult males, which is why pheromone traps catch them. They signal an active infestation, but they aren't the source. The larvae in your food are. You have to find and toss the infested package to actually fix it.