| Scientific name | Tineola bisselliella |
|---|---|
| Group | Moths & Butterflies |
| Size | 6–8 mm (up to about 0.31 in) |
| Colors | Tan and Yellow |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Bedroom or bed |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The webbing clothes moth is a small member of the moths & butterflies group. Wings covered in fine scales and a coiled, straw-like tongue. Check for these three features:
- Small, shiny golden-tan wings without spots
- Tuft of reddish-gold hair on the head
- Silken tubes and holes in wool clothing and rugs
About this bug
A small, golden-buff moth whose larvae eat wool, silk, fur, feathers and cashmere. Adults avoid light and are more often found in closets than flying around lamps.
You'll usually find webbing clothes moths in bedrooms and beds. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Clothes moths don't bite people; larvae damage natural-fiber fabrics.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see webbing clothes moths
Webbing Clothes Moths are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: bedroom or bed.
About moths & butterflies
The webbing clothes moth is one of the moths & butterflies. Moths and butterflies have wings covered in tiny scales and go through complete metamorphosis. The caterpillar stage does all the feeding and damage, while adults sip nectar or, in some species, don't eat at all.
In pantries and closets, the moths you see flying are a signal. The real problem is the larvae feeding in food or fabric nearby.
What to do about it
- Wash, dry-clean or freeze infested garments
- Vacuum closets, rug edges and under furniture thoroughly
- Store wool and silk in sealed bags or cedar-lined containers
Bugs that look similar
Size: Indian Meal Moths are larger, reaching 10 mm, while webbing clothes moths top out around 8 mm.
Group: Webbing Clothes Moth belongs to moths & butterflies, while varied carpet beetle belongs to beetles. Wings covered in fine scales and a coiled, straw-like tongue.
Frequently asked questions
What does a webbing clothes moth look like?
Small, shiny golden-tan wings without spots. Adults measure 6–8 mm (up to about 0.31 in).
Does the webbing clothes moth bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Clothes moths don't bite people; larvae damage natural-fiber fabrics.
Where do webbing clothes moths live?
Webbing Clothes Moths live in bedrooms and beds.
When are webbing clothes moths most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.