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The Ultimate Guide to Rodent Control
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Pantry moths can spoil your stored foods fast. In over four years as a registered technician with my family’s third-generation business, I’ve seen how these pests take hold in DMV kitchens.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to get rid of pantry moths in your home. You’ll learn to spot, treat, and prevent these insects with simple steps and expert tips.
Adult pantry moths measure about 10 mm long. They have pale gray basal wings with coppery-red tips and hold them tent-like at rest, according to the Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension. They’re weak fliers but excel at sneaking into dry goods.
These moths thrive in warm pantries above 50 °F, meaning they can take hold year-round in DC-area kitchens, per the National Pesticide Information Center. They can produce up to eight generations a year. Additionally, high humidity (over 50 %) speeds larval growth, says the University of Maryland Extension.
Look for adults fluttering near lights at dusk. Larvae are creamy-white with brown heads and about 13 mm long. Eggs are tiny, dull white, and laid in clusters inside or on food packages.
You might see silky mats in flour or cereal. Crumbs mixed with frass (insect droppings) look gritty. Check cabinet corners for cocoons and sniff for a slight musty or grainy smell.
Empty one shelf at a time. Inspect seams of boxes and bags under bright light. Move items off shelves to check corners and behind labels.
Place sticky traps at least 25 ft from any exterior door. They lure and catch males but won’t solve an infestation alone. Use traps to monitor activity, not eliminate pests.
Vacuum shelf cracks, crevices, and corners to remove eggs and webbing. Then wipe surfaces with soapy water or a 1:1 vinegar solution to clear residue.
Toss any package showing holes, webbing, or larvae—even if it’s unopened. Larvae chew through plastic and foil. It’s better to discard than risk reinfesting your pantry, as shown by a USDA ARS packaging study.
Freeze bulk items at 0 °F for at least three days or more for large batches. Or heat goods at 120–140 °F for 20–60 minutes in an oven or solar bag. This kills eggs and larvae, per Colorado State University Extension.
Transfer dry goods to glass jars or #2/#5 plastic containers with rubber-sealed lids. Label and date everything. Seal gaps in shelves and crack around cupboards to block entry.
Only after thorough cleaning and discarding should you consider chemicals. Apply EPA-approved aerosols to empty, food-free cracks and crevices. Let surfaces dry before restocking.
Use pyrethroid or pyrethrin sprays on shelf joints and wall edges. In commercial settings, Growth Regulators like methoprene interrupt larval molting but aren’t often labeled for occupied kitchens.
In mills, species like Habrobracon hebetor prey on pantry moth larvae. They aren’t practical for home use, but they show how biological controls can work.
If moths keep coming back or you find signs in multiple areas, it’s time to call an expert. Registered technicians use Integrated Pest Management and products approved by our internal research team.
Our process starts with a detailed pantry inspection. We use EPA-approved products vetted by our research team. Plus, we offer free unlimited callbacks until the problem is under control. For other pest tips, see our guide on How to Get Rid of Spiders in House: No More Webs & Crawlers or learn about termite tactics in How to Get Rid of Termites: Pro Methods & Home Remedies.
Rotate stock so older items get used first. Do a quick pantry audit each spring before humidity rises. Clean shelves and check containers for new signs of moth activity.
Pantry moth sightings peak in July–September when kitchens get warmer. Seal any cracks and keep new dry goods frozen for a few days before storing.
Our Schulz family has served the DMV for over 50 years. As a third-generation company, I bring four years as a registered technician to every job.
We eliminated nine of the industry’s harshest chemicals. All our products are EPA approved and ones we’d use in our own homes.
If pantry moths return, we come back at no extra cost until you’re satisfied. Call and talk to a licensed technician—no phone trees, no outsourced service.
Ready to tackle pantry moths? Call us at 703-683-2000 or email [email protected] for an expert estimate or with any questions.
It varies, but most home infestations clear in 3–6 weeks. Success depends on thorough cleaning, monitoring, and storage changes.
Yes, they can return if eggs or larvae remain hidden. Regular checks and airtight storage help stop them from coming back.
Most studies show bay leaves have little impact. Real prevention relies on sealed containers and good cleaning.
Traps only catch male moths and help track activity. You still need to discard infested goods and clean shelves.
Freeze new bulk buys, use airtight jars, rotate stock, and inspect items before adding them to your pantry.
They favor grains, cereal, flour, birdseed, pet food, nuts, and spices. Check these items first when you suspect moths.
Yes, larvae feed on dry dog and cat food too. Treat pet food like any dry good: inspect, freeze, or store in sealed containers.
Aim for a quick check every month, with a deeper audit each spring and fall. Early spotting stops moths before they spread.
Remember, for any questions or to get a free estimate, reach out at 703-683-2000 or [email protected].
With five years of hands-on experience in the pest control industry, George Schulz is a registered technician with the Virginia Pest Management Association and a proud third-generation professional in a family business that’s been protecting homes for over 57 years. He manages and trains a team of service pros while also leading internal research efforts—recently spearheading a deep-dive review of thousands of documents on pest control materials to hand-pick the most kid and pet friendly, most effective solutions tailored specifically for homes in the DC metro area. Read his bio.
