On the day of emergence from there pupae, adult females can mate and lay eggs. Each female on average lays 30-40 eggs, either singly or in small groups over a 2-3 week period. The eggs hatch within 4-10 days in the summer but may require up to 3 weeks in the winter.
Development time from egg to an adult varies from a typical 50-90 days to between 35 days to 4 years. Females die after all their eggs are laid, usually in about 116 days, whereas males live on average about 28 days.
They attack synthetic fibres only when they are interwoven with natural animal fibre material or are soiled. They feed on materials such as wool, hair, fur etc. they have been found infesting beef meat, fish and milk products in addition to furs and woollens.
Preventing moths from entering your home is very difficult as their main means of entry is simply to fly in through an open window. Once in your home, they look for dark undisturbed areas, such as inside wardrobes where they will lay eggs.
We would always suggest that any clothes which are to be stored away in cupboards for long periods of time, be done so in sealed containers. Any soft furnishings you might have, for example carpets, should be vacuumed on a regular basis.