Pantry moths, also known as meal moths, damage foods in your pantry and kitchen cabinets. They are attracted to a wide variety of foods such as cereal, chocolate and nuts. The moth has red-brown forewings, and when the eggs hatch the larvae appear as small white caterpillars. The larvae leave behind threads in the pantry and they spin cocoons to transform into brown pupae. The moth emerges from the cocoon and the cycle may start all over again. Instead of buying a commercial moth trap, kill them with homemade methods to prevent the pests from ruining your food.
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Things you need
- Mild washing up liquid
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
- Boric acid
- Jar lids
- Diatomaceous earth
- Cedar chips
- Cheesecloth square
Locate the food source in your pantry. Inspect all the packages in the pantry and cupboards. Look for broken or cracked packages. Remove the source as soon as possible. Dispose of the food or seal it in an airtight bag.
Look for the signs of infestation. Webbing on tight areas on the package or small holes in containers are indicative of infestation. The pantry moths can invade packages that are still sealed as well.
Remove all the items from the pantry and cupboards where you notice an infestation. Clean the shelves with a mild soap and warm water solution. Scrub all cracks, crevices and corners on the shelves carefully with a sponge. Dry the shelves with a towel.
Vacuum the cracks with a hose attachment. The vacuum will remove larvae and eggs. Dispose of the vacuum contents outdoors in the dustbin.
Combine a 1 to 3 ratio of boric acid and cornmeal in jar lids. Place the lids in the kitchen pantry and cupboards to attract the larvae.
Sprinkle boric acid or diatomaceous earth in the cracks and corners of the cabinets and cupboards to kill the pests. Vacuum the cracks and crevices after two to three days and reapply the boric acid.
Tie cedar chips in a cheesecloth square. Place the cheesecloth in the cabinets or cupboards to repel the moths.
Buy pheromone traps at your local garden centre if the moths still exist. The pheromones will attract the adult male moths, which reduces the female egg production. Place the traps in the area of the infestation and examine them daily. Replace the traps as needed until you remove the moths from the home.
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