Flour moths can infest your kitchen, laying their eggs not only in flour, but also in cereal, noodles and other types of grain. The caterpillars that hatch out cause the damage to your grain products. If you don't get rid of flour moths, their populations can quickly grow and they can spread throughout the pantry. Most moths get inside your home via groceries or items you bring in from storage, according to the Washington State University Extension. Good sanitation is the best way to rid your kitchen of flour moths.
Store flour and other grain products in tightly sealed containers made of glass or tough plastic -- most pantry bugs can chew through cardboard and thin plastic, according to the WSU Extension. Glass jars should have rubber seals. Be especially vigilant about storing dry pet food in a sealed container -- it's one of the most frequently infested items.
Clean up spilled flour or grains from your pantry and other storage areas as soon as possible. Use a vacuum to get every bit out of the cracks and corners. Make sure storage areas are dry, cool and ventilated so mold and mildew won't grow.
Pull out your appliances, kitchen drawers and furniture periodically to vacuum up crumbs, pet food or grains that may have fallen behind or under them. Clean crumbs out of the toaster and the dishwasher.
Buy flour and other grains only in amounts you can use in less than six months, recommends the WSU Extension. Food stored longer than that can result in serious infestations of flour moths.
Throw out any food or other items that contain moths, eggs or caterpillars. Act immediately and you may not have to deal with a bigger problem. Look for any signs that insects have chewed through your cardboard food boxes. Err on the side of caution -- toss out any boxes that you think might have been compromised. Scrub the storage space with hot, soapy water and allow it to dry thoroughly.
Apply a mild insecticide if desired after cleaning -- but only to cracks and crevices where pests might be hiding, cautions the University of Missouri Extension. Do not apply insecticide where it will contaminate your food. Make sure the product is labeled for indoor use on flour moths. You may prefer to call a licensed exterminator.