moth-like flying insects inside - Ask Extension
We have some small, moth-like insects flying around in our house. Biggest concern is if they are moths and will feed on wool, etc.
I will upload p...
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moth-like flying insects inside #947138
Asked October 15, 2026, 3:20 PM EDT
We have some small, moth-like insects flying around in our house. Biggest concern is if they are moths and will feed on wool, etc.
I will upload photos but they are very small and hard to photograph. Their length is about a quarter of an inch.
Can you help us to identify them and let us know how to get rid of them?
Lucas County Ohio
Expert Response
The moth in your image has the appearance of a clothes moth. Hardware stores do sell traps to monitor populations. You could deploy these traps around the house to narrow down where the moths may be located and what they might have infested. As you are aware, if it is a clothes moth, they target natural fibers such as wool coats, jackets, horsehair furniture stuffing, and wool carpets. These items will need to be inspected for signs of damage. If you find damaged articles, they will need to be dealt with or disposed of to remove the developing population. An exterminator may be in order.
