Why Moth Infestations Are Rising in Wiltshire Homes (and How to Prevent Them)

Recent studies suggest that clothes moth numbers have increased by over 60% in the UK over the past two decades, with warmer winters and centrally heated homes creating the perfect environment for these pests. For many households in Wiltshire, this rise in moth infestations is becoming a frustrating and costly issue, particularly when valuable clothes, carpets, and upholstery are damaged.

Why Moth Infestations Are Increasing in Wiltshire Homes

Moth infestations in Wiltshire homes are no longer just a seasonal concern. Pest control professionals across the county have noticed a steady increase in callouts, particularly in areas such as Salisbury, Swindon, Trowbridge, and Chippenham. Many older properties, which are common across Wiltshire, have natural fibre carpets, thick curtains, and limited ventilation. These conditions create an ideal breeding ground for clothes moths.

The increase in moth infestations is often linked to:

  • Natural fibres – clothes moths prefer materials such as wool, silk, cashmere, and fur.

     

  • Older housing stock – many Wiltshire homes, especially in historic areas, still rely on thick wool carpets and heavy curtains.

     

  • Undisturbed storage areas – lofts, attics, and wardrobes often go unchecked for months at a time.
  • Busy modern lifestyles – families have less time for deep cleaning and may not check stored clothing regularly.

 

Clothes moths are discreet and often go unnoticed until visible damage appears. By the time small holes are seen in jumpers, coats, or carpets, a full infestation may already be established.

Are Clothes Moths on the Rise in the UK?

Homeowners across the UK are asking the same question: are clothes moths on the rise? The short answer is yes. Several nationwide studies confirm that moth activity has been steadily increasing over the past 20 years.

The main reasons behind this trend include:

  • Climate change – warmer temperatures allow moths to breed throughout the year, rather than being limited to the summer months.

  • Central heating – stable indoor temperatures provide an ideal environment for moth larvae to thrive.

  • Historic buildings – in counties like Wiltshire, where heritage homes are common, natural textiles are more widespread.

  • Lifestyle changes – people now own more seasonal clothing, which is stored away for long periods in bags, boxes, or wardrobes.

Wiltshire is particularly vulnerable because it has a mix of rural villages, heritage homes, and large family houses with multiple storage spaces. Areas such as Devizes and Marlborough, known for their older housing, are reporting more frequent moth-related issues.

How to Spot a Moth Infestation in Your Home

Recognising the signs of moth infestations in Wiltshire homes early can save time and money. Look out for:

  • Holes in clothing – small, irregular holes in jumpers, suits, coats, and scarves.

  • Damaged carpets or rugs – particularly in hidden corners or under furniture.

  • Shed moth casings – tiny beige cases left behind by larvae.

  • Webbing – fine, silken threads in the folds of clothes or carpet edges.

  • Live moths – though adult moths are small and often hide in dark spaces.

If these signs appear, the infestation may already be more severe than it seems, as larvae do most of the damage before adults are noticed.

How to Prevent Moths in Wardrobes in the UK

Prevention is the most effective way to deal with clothes moths. Homeowners across Wiltshire can take simple but effective steps to protect their wardrobes and fabrics.

Practical prevention tips:

  • Vacuum regularly – pay attention to corners, skirting boards, under furniture, and inside wardrobes.

  • Wash clothes before storage – moths are attracted to sweat, food, and body oils left on fabric.

  • Use airtight containers or bags – especially for wool, cashmere, and seasonal clothing.

  • Store clothing in well-ventilated areas – avoid damp or poorly aired lofts.

  • Rotate stored clothes – check seasonal items every few months rather than leaving them untouched.

  • Use natural deterrents – cedar wood blocks, lavender sachets, and moth repellent strips can help, though they are not foolproof.

For Wiltshire families, this is especially important after winter, when coats, knitwear, and blankets are packed away. Checking stored items in spring and summer reduces the risk of long-term damage.

Why DIY Methods Sometimes Fail

While DIY moth deterrents are useful, they often fail to stop larger infestations. This is because:

  • Moth larvae are hidden in deep carpet fibres or wardrobe corners.

  • Natural deterrents do not kill larvae; they only reduce adult activity.

  • Eggs can survive unnoticed and hatch months later.

  • DIY sprays rarely reach all breeding areas.

Once clothes moths become established, it can be difficult to fully eradicate them without professional support.

Professional Moth Control Services in Wiltshire

When moth activity becomes more than an occasional nuisance, professional support is the best option. At Wiltshire Pest Services, our dedicated moth control treatments are designed to target both adult moths and larvae.

Our approach includes:

  • Thorough inspection – identifying where moths are breeding and feeding.

  • Targeted treatment – using safe, proven methods that work in both modern and historic homes.

  • Long-term prevention – advising on storage, cleaning, and property maintenance to stop infestations from returning.

  • Discreet service – we understand that protecting your home and privacy is just as important as dealing with the pests.

We also offer complementary services such as rodent control for homeowners dealing with wider pest issues. Many infestations involve more than one pest problem, and our team can provide comprehensive solutions.

Choosing a local pest control service is especially valuable in Wiltshire. Our team understands:

  • The unique housing stock across the county, from modern estates in Swindon to historic cottages in Marlborough.

  • The impact of rural surroundings, where moth populations can thrive undisturbed.

  • Seasonal patterns, with increased moth activity reported in spring and summer.

This local expertise means Wiltshire Pest Services can tailor solutions to the specific challenges faced by homeowners in the area.

Moth infestations in Wiltshire homes are likely to continue rising as the climate shifts and households continue to use natural fabrics. By learning how to prevent moths in wardrobes in the UK and recognising the early signs of infestation, you can protect your clothes and furnishings from costly damage.

For those already struggling with persistent moth problems, professional help is the most effective way forward. Wiltshire Pest Services Ltd. offers trusted, effective, and discreet moth control solutions across the county, helping families safeguard their homes and wardrobes for years to come.

FAQs – Moth Infestations in Wiltshire Homes

Moth infestations are usually caused by clothes moths laying eggs on natural fibres such as wool, silk, and cashmere. Older homes in Wiltshire, with wool carpets, thick curtains, and less ventilation, are especially vulnerable.

Yes. Studies and pest control data show that clothes moth numbers have increased significantly in the UK due to warmer winters, central heating, and lifestyle changes such as storing seasonal clothes for longer periods.

Common signs include small holes in clothing, damaged carpets under furniture, silky webbing, shed casings, and moth larvae in dark corners of wardrobes or storage boxes.

Preventing moths involves:

  • Washing or dry-cleaning clothes before storage

  • Using airtight storage bags for seasonal clothing

  • Vacuuming wardrobes, carpets, and corners regularly

  • Using cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural deterrents

If moth damage is ongoing or larvae are widespread, professional moth control is the most effective solution. Wiltshire Pest Services offers safe treatments tailored for local homes, ensuring both adult moths and larvae are eliminated with long-term prevention in place.

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We also cover properties within the SN and BA postcode areas, ensuring homes and businesses receive fast, reliable, and discreet pest control services.

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Wiltshire Pest Services Limited offers professional pest control treatments across Wiltshire and surrounding areas. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, insects, birds, or require proofing solutions, we are here to help in the following locations:

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