2023-10-27 20:00:24
Are you fed up with holes in clothes? Identify the causes that attract moths, such as heat, dirt or humidity, and take action in your home.
Last update: October 27, 2023
Moths, cockroaches and ants look for places to live, feed and reproduce that are conducive to them. It is likely that, without wanting to do so, we are facilitating that habitat, which can lead to pests that are difficult to eradicate.
Moths are attracted to food scraps, clothing, and humidity.. Keeping places sanitized and closets organized is a first step to prevent its appearance. However, there are more elements that we must pay attention to.
These things attract moths, ants and cockroaches to the house
There are two main groups of moths. On the one hand, the pantry ones, large in size, with bronze tones and attracted by different cereals.
The other group is that of clothing moths, whitish in color and with a preference for textiles. These are the causes of holes in clothes. Let’s see what attracts each group to the home and what other bugs can appear for the same reasons.
1. Luz
Lighting is usually an attraction for pantry moths. They identify a light source and pursue it, entering the houses through door and window openings.
Once inside, they will look for the opposite: darkness. But the first stimulus to arrive is the clarity that guides them. For this reason Dim lighting is usually recommended around homes.preferring less power in the spotlights that are installed in galleries, entrances and garages.
2. Stored food
Pantry moths are known by that name because their main target is the food stored there. Especially cereals and derivatives, such as oats, rice, dry pasta or flour. They approach by smell and are likely to lay their eggs.generating larvae and spoiling food.
3. Pet food
In addition to human food, they are also attracted to dog and cat food. Therefore, It is important to store this product tightly closed and under airtight lids. It is not a good practice to leave what has not been used yet in the bag in which it was sold.
Likewise, it is prudent to maintain hygiene at the pet food site. Picking up the dishes off the floor, washing them, and putting them away would be ideal.
4. Stains, spills and food remains
Food scraps, sugary drink stains, and any sweet residue are magnets for many insects. Especially cockroaches and ants. Keep the kitchen area clean, including the nooks and crannies between the refrigerator, oven and cupboard, could make a difference.
5. Humidity
Many pests seek to grow in humid spaces, either because pipes or taps leave leaks, or because the darkness of a piece of furniture favors a lack of evaporation. Flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches and moths feel comfortable in humidity.
Then, Their very presence, their waste and the environmental conditions attract fungi. For example, this is what happens behind refrigerators, air conditioners or on the bathroom floor.
6. Heat
High temperature is one of the main attractions for moths. In summer, mezzanines, sheds and attics are ideal environments for these pests. Take care of keeping these spaces organized so as not to facilitate their growth.
7. Darkness
Although the light is an initial attraction, moths then feel comfortable in dark spaces. Once inside, they will look for pantries and closets where there is little lighting, good humidity, and heat is maintained.
8. Clothing and textiles
Clothes moths have a predilection for certain fabrics. The conjunction of the following elements and circumstances facilitate its appearance:
General disorder. Having a messy closet favors the proliferation of moths, since they have more shelters to hide and stay warm.
Textiles desired by the plague. Some of moths’ favorite fabrics are silk, wool, linen, and other natural fibers, such as fur. And not only clothing, but they also choose upholstery, rugs and curtains.
Dirty clothes. Like dirty dishes and leftover food, moths are attracted to stains on clothing, such as spills or sweat.
9. Some plants
There are plants that repel pests and others that attract them. In the last group are the silk flowerPurslane gilliesii), fire grass (Heliotropium curassavicus), the petunia and the moonflower (Ipomoea alba). Additionally, daisies and pansies attract flies and mosquitoes.
10. Elements and characteristics of the garden
If you have a garden, Consider not leaving accumulated water or food remains in the patio. Pests look for these elements to survive.
Bird waterers and feeders need to be checked frequently. In the best case, have a water circulation system that does not leave it stagnant.
On the other hand, the compost area is a source of insects. It does not mean that you stop composting, but you do have to pay attention to the arrival of bugs and their possible transfer into the home.
How to avoid moths and other bugs in your home?
Identifying the main reason that encourages moths and other insects to enter your home is important to take action. Now that you know what attracts them, the following are essential tips for preventing pests:
Maintain general cleanliness. Sweep often, vacuum the carpets, dust and clean the pantry.
Try moth traps. There are adhesive products that retain insects when passing over them.
Store food in closed containers. Above all, cereals and their derivatives, prioritizing airtight jars.
Remove trash regularly. The accumulation of garbage in trash cans is a food source for cockroaches and other insects.
Pay attention to the nooks and crannies. Prevents the accumulation of food debris and grime in baseboards, corners and behind appliances.
Place repellent plants. Some species, such as lavender, mint or basil, work as natural repellents for moths, flies and mosquitoes.
Use laundry bags. Clothing that is not used regularly can also be vacuum sealed with bags. They are easy to get and cost around 16 euros for five copies.
Maintain hygiene and you will avoid things that attract moths
General cleaning is the most important aspect to avoid pests in the home. At the same time, order and correct storage avoid spaces that encourage its growth. However, none of these measures may eliminate an infestation that is already installed. In that case, go to professional fumigation.
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