How to find the nest of feeding moths?
To find out, the most important thing is to look for the darkest places in your home. It is these spaces that attract moths to lay and develop their eggs comfortably and safely.
Mites prefer cereal-based products (flour, cereals, pasta, baking mixes, cookies), seeds, nuts, hazelnuts, dried fruits, but also sweets. However, the larvae hide in the edges of cans, spice jars, or in unopened containers and sealed jars. Also remember to check the animals’ food!
Can you eat rice infested with moths?
No study shows that it is harmful to health. However, this does not mean that we can eat foods infested with moths.
There are ways to prevent rice moth infestation in your food and pantry. However, you should make sure to transfer all dry foods to airtight containers before storing them in your pantry.
What to do against moths? Tips to get rid of this problem naturally
Meal moths (or meal butterflies) quickly become a nuisance in the kitchen, also because they are not easy to get rid of. Whether using an insecticide or deep cleaning, in most cases it requires a lot of time and patience.
However, it must be taken into account that there are also various more traditional and less harmful techniques for health and the environment that can be used successfully against these parasites.
Empty your entire pantry
Remove all products from your pantry or cupboard. If possible, remove shelves, including support pins, drawers, all food containers and packaging, shelf liners, etc. Try emptying all the space!
Disinfect kitchen cabinets
First, thoroughly clean all kitchen cabinets. Throw away any products that have moths. Also, wash shelves and cabinets with vinegar water and your favorite essential oil (this is optional). It’s also a good idea to quickly disinfect cabinets.
Mix hot water and white vinegar in a spray bottle (1/3 vinegar, 2/3 water). Then close the container and wait for the solution to cool.
It is also important to store food properly. Store all bulk products (flour, oats, nuts) in glass containers. Don’t leave them in paper or plastic bags.
Place scented repellents
Edible moths do not like certain strong odors. Therefore, it is worth using it carefully. Put in the closets:
- The dried peels of oranges, citrus fruits and tangerines.
- An orange with cloves.
- Chili or bay leaves.
- Cotton soaked in vanilla scent.
There is a very effective clove-based solution. Pour two tablespoons of cloves into boiling water.
Place a cup of this mixture in the kitchen cupboard. Then wait for the water to cool completely and remove the cup. The smell of cloves scares away pests!
Use extreme temperatures to get rid of moths
Moths and their eggs can be easily destroyed using the freezer. Place infested produce in a plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. After 4 days, the cold of the freezer kills all the eggs, larvae and pupae.
Keep moths away with essential oils: an effective remedy for all problems
Essential oils, widely known for their beneficial properties in various areas, are excellent allies to combat the invasion of food moths. Therefore, we invite you to mix a few drops with fresh water and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. In most stores you can find flavors that satisfy all olfactory tastes: from eucalyptus to mint and lemongrass.
How to combat food moths with garlic?
Garlic (which can also be easily grown on the balcony) also repels food moths. Therefore, just place a few cloves of garlic in your cupboards or kitchen cupboards to permanently and naturally get rid of those little butterflies that appear every time you reach into your food supplies.
Whatever method we choose, prevention is the most effective solution.
Don’t forget that prevention also includes installing a mosquito net on the window to prevent the entry of insects from neighbors. Feeding moths can also enter through vents. These areas can be protected with a fine mesh, taking into account air circulation of course.
How to get rid of flying moths with lemongrass?
Cut fresh lemongrass leaves, place them in mesh bags, and place them in closets and drawers. Not only do they leave a pleasant smell in your closets, but they also keep moths and other insects away. Remember to replace the bags every month.