[2][3] Moths in this family are small to medium in size with wingspans ranging from 7 to 55 mm (0.3 to 2.2 in).

The head usually bears smooth scales and the antennae are often thickened in the middle.

The wings are elongated and the hindwings often bear long fringes.

The colouring is generally drab, with various banding and marking.

[1] Below are the genera of the family Plutellidae:[4][5] The fungus moth Erechthias niphochrysa was also once included here, as a distinct genus Acrocenotes.