Nemapogon cloacellus is found mainly in the spring and early summer. The moth grows to a length of 7.5 mm and has a wingspan of 10 to 14 mm. The cork moth lays its eggs not only on cork but also on moist wine casks in dark, dank cellars. The caterpillars of this moth species are also called cork worms.

Cork moths and cork worms are highly undesirable in wine cellars. The caterpillars destroy the corks in bottles of wine, and the wine either leaks out or tastes musty. The taste is caused by mould fungi, bacteria and mites. They settle on the cork-crumb "cocoons", which are interspersed with faeces, and thus ruin the wine.

Preventive measures and controls

• Lavender, cedar wood and ethereal oils are of only limited help. Although they repel some of the moths, they are ineffective against the greedy larvae.
• Clothes, carpets and upholstery should be vacuumed, brushed or beaten on a regular basis.
• Wardrobes should be thoroughly vacuumed on a regular basis if infested and subsequently at least twice a year to prevent re-infestation (use the crevice tool of a vacuum cleaner, particularly for boreholes, cracks and crevices).
• Hot and cold temperatures kill moths and larvae; infested clothes should be either frozen (for at least one week) or washed or ironed at a hot temperature.
• Baygon Insect Spray, Insect Strip, Moth Paper or Moth Bag.

The basis rule is:

• Dry-cleaned or washed, well-aired clothes are not particularly attractive to moths.