What type of pests do clothes moths primarily affect?

Clothes moths primarily target textiles and clothing, making them a significant concern in homes and businesses where fabrics and garments are present. The adult moths are attracted to natural fibers such as wool, silk, and cotton, and they are particularly infamous for laying their eggs on these materials. Once the larvae hatch, they begin to feed on the protein found in keratin, which is abundant in animal-based fabrics, leading to damage in garments, upholstery, and other textile items.

This focus on textiles and clothing is vital to understand when considering pest management strategies, as effective control methods need to specifically address this particular type of pest and their breeding habits. Treatments often involve cleaning, vacuuming, and using moth repellants or traps designed for this purpose, highlighting the importance of properly identifying clothes moths to mitigate damage effectively.