Moth season has begun, and homeowners are being warned to act now to avoid these pesky bugs from infesting their property. There’s nothing worse than pulling out your favourite spring jumper to only see it ruined by tiny holes after being a moth’s dinner.

According to Total Wardrobe Care,”clothes moth season usually takes place in spring and summer, around April and May, when the female moths start mating and searching for the perfect spot to lay their eggs.” Moth season can stretch over five months, and each moth can lay up to 300 eggs at once, with a lifespan of 65-90 days. Luckily, a simple trick using one common houseplant can deter moths from invading your homes. 

Moths can get into your home through open windows or doors, and they can even enter by attaching themselves to clothing or soft furnishings.

To keep moths at bay, hang small cloth bags filled with lavender in your wardrobe or place a lavender plant by your window. Moths are repelled by the strong scent of lavender and other common herbs. 

“Place dried rosemary, thyme, cloves, lavender or bay leaves into a small cloth bag, hang them in your wardrobe, and place them in your drawers. You can also use essential oil and herb sprays on contaminated areas,” reported Country Living.

However, homeowners should be aware that placing both lavender hanging bags and store-bought moth traps will be counterproductive, as the two scents will be at odds. 

Experts at Moth Prevention said: “Hanging herbal sachets in combination with pheromone moth traps will also mean these deterrents and attractants are at odds with each other.

“Placing natural deterrents in between stored clothing can work whilst also hanging pheromone clothes moth traps – if the two aren’t in close proximity.”

The specialists also suggest keeping fabrics like wool, silk, fur, and leather tucked away in airtight bins or containers. They added: “Cleaning your home regularly is also key.

“Be sure to always sweep and vacuum regularly and store fabrics at risk from moths and food items in airtight containers whenever possible.”

How to spot a moth infestation

Adult moths do not have mouths, so holes in clothes are actually made by larvae, an immature form of the insect that resembles a maggot. 

Homeowners should look out for webbing and cocoons in the corners of their wardrobes and cupboards. Those weary of a moth infestation should also check for signs of damage on their clothes. This should alert you where the eggs have been laid.