Moths themselves do not actually eat clothing directly; it’s the larvae (caterpillars) of certain species of moths, particularly clothes moths (such as the webbing clothes moth and the casemaking clothes moth), that feed on natural fibers found in clothing, carpets, upholstery, and other household items. These larvae are attracted to keratin, a protein found in animal-based materials like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather.

Clothes moth larvae chew on these fabrics to consume the keratin, leaving behind small holes and causing damage to the textiles. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas, which makes closets, drawers, and storage boxes ideal environments for infestations. Adult moths, on the other hand, do not feed on clothing; their primary purpose is to mate and lay eggs, continuing the lifecycle that leads to fabric damage.Here’s why moths like Tineola bisselliella might feed on clothing:

1. Nutritional Needs: Like all insects, moths require a diet that provides them with the necessary nutrients for growth and reproduction. Clothes moths are typically drawn to materials that contain animal products, such as wool, silk, feathers, and fur. These materials contain keratin, a protein found in the hair, fur, and feathers of animals, which is also present in the natural fibers of these textiles. Moths mistake the fibers for the animal-based materials from which they evolved to feed.
2. Odors and warmth: Moths are also attracted to areas where clothing is stored, especially if the clothing is stored in conditions that are warm and humid. The odors emitted by clothing, which are often remnants of the body’s natural scent or from detergents and fabric softeners, can serve as a chemical attractant to the moths.
3. Eggshells and Felting: The tiny larvae of clothes moths feed on a diet that includes the natural fibers of their host material, but they also often consume the eggshells left behind by their eggs. Additionally, as they feed and grow, the larvae can cause the fibers of the material to felt, which is a process where the fibers mat together and become entangled, making the material more appealing to the moths.
4. Accessibility: Clothing provides an enclosed environment that can protect moth larvae from predators and harsh environmental conditions. The folds and crevices of clothing can also provide a plentiful supply of food over an extended period, making it an ideal habitat for moth larvae.

To prevent moth damage to clothing, it’s important to store garments in a clean, well-ventilated space, and to use moth repellents or protective storage bags. Regularly inspecting stored clothing for signs of moth infestation can also help to minimize damage.