Household Casebearer

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae

Size: Case length is typically 8 mm to 14 mm

Household Casebearer

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in humid climates. Often found on walls, under furniture, or in closets.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and various natural fibers.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a flattened, spindle-shaped case from silk and debris that it carries for protection. It can move by protruding its head and legs from either end of the case.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a minor household pest because they can damage silk or wool clothing and fabrics, but they do not pose any health risk to humans.

Identified on: 1/7/2026