List of Bugs That Eat Clothes And How To Get Rid of Them

When it comes to pests that invade our homes, we often think of rodents, termites, and cockroaches. However, there are other types of bugs that can cause significant damage and often go unnoticed until it’s too late. One such pest is the clothes-eating bug.

If you have ever found small holes in your clothing, it is likely that you have had a run-in with clothes-eating bugs. There are different bugs that eat clothes. These tiny insects may seem harmless at first glance, but they can wreak havoc on your wardrobe and even damage your home’s structure.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the different types of bugs that eat clothes, how to identify them, and what you can do to protect your belongings.

List of 7 Bugs That Eat Clothes

There are different types of bugs that can infest your home and cause damage to your clothing. Here are some of the most common clothes-eating bugs:

1. Moths

Clothes moths are usually to blame when your clothes get eaten by bugs. These small, winged insects are attracted to natural fibers like wool and cotton. They lay their eggs in these materials, and the larvae that hatch out eat the fibers.

You may not realize you have a clothes moth infestation until you start finding holes in your clothes. Clothes moths are very small, so they’re often hard to spot. You might also see silk cocoons or webbing on your clothes.

2. Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles are another type of bug that can damage your clothes. These pests are attracted to animal fibers like wool and fur, and can also eat synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. Carpet beetle larvae will spin a cocoon around themselves as they feed, which can further damage your clothing.

3. Silverfish

Silverfish are small, wingless insects that love to eat paper and fabric. They are often found in dark, humid areas like closets or basements, and can cause extensive damage to your clothing if left unchecked. Silverfish particularly love to eat natural fibers like cotton and linen.

4. Cockroaches

Similarly, common house cockroaches can rip holes in your clothes. They are not drawn to the fabric of your clothing, and they don’t require it for growth and reproduction.

They are voracious predators drawn to your clothing’s starch from laundry detergent, sweat, food, and drinks. As they consume the stains and starch, they cut the fibers, creating holes in your garment or making it simpler for you to shred them.

5. Firebrats

Firebrat adults resemble silverfish in appearance. In addition, they lack wings and have bodies with antennae, tail filaments, and a carrot-like form. They have a silver-brown hue and a length of between 1/4 and 1/2 inch.

Once they locate a food source, they usually remain around. They enjoy everything that has been starched including materials like rayon, cotton, and linen. Firebrats are drawn to food and beverages with sugary stains. The damage has an asymmetrical shape. Typically, firebrats go after the stain and consume it.

6. Crickets

Crickets, like cockroaches, will opportunistically consume the perspiration, food, and laundry starch stains on your clothing, but their survival is unrelated to the consumption of these substances. As they eat, the fibers are cut, creating holes or fraying the fabric, making them more prone to holes.

7. Termite

Termites are included in our list of insects that consume clothing. Most people would not blame termites for their ruined garments because they are known to consume wood. Food, drinks, and body odor stains, however, are alluring to termites. They frequently rip the fabric of the clothing as they consume the stains.

How do I get rid of bugs that eat clothes? Step By Step Guide

Conclusion

Dealing with bugs that eat clothes can be a frustrating and expensive experience. These tiny pests can cause significant damage to your clothing, linens, and even your home’s structure. However, there are steps you can take to prevent infestations and protect your belongings.

Regularly cleaning and storing your clothes in airtight containers can help deter bugs from feasting on your fabrics. It’s also important to inspect and treat any potential entry points in your home, such as cracks and crevices. If you do notice an infestation, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage.

Whether it’s using natural remedies or calling in a professional exterminator, there are solutions available to help get rid of clothes-eating bugs for good. By staying vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can protect your wardrobe and home from these pesky pests.

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