Warm winter, mild weather, this year moths have been provided with ideal conditions for breeding. Cashmere and wool is their favourite dish but your sweaters’ natural fibres (silk, lambswool, shearling, cotton) would also completely meet their wish.
By popular demand and as we care about the longevity of your garments, here are some top tips to get rid of clothes moths and prevent their return.
1. Clean your wardrobe - thoroughly
First things first: moths breed in undisturbed, dark and damp places. Unluckily for you, this is exactly what your drawers provide. You should start by removing all garments from the affected drawers and cupboards - and scour (everything, and very, very thoroughly). Vacuum, and use soapy water or a vinegar & water solution to clean your closet floor and walls.
2. Clean your clothes - all of them
To get rid of eggs that moths may have laid (the main reason why your problems never go away), it is essential to wash all of your textile items. Be careful to always follow care labels instructions: do not try to wash them at higher temperatures than instructed. Bring the most delicate ones to your favourite dry cleaners (wink wink), including, if you can, curtains and upholstery.
If your moth problem is really not going away, the last resort is to fit your clothes in airless bags and then into your freezer for 48h to kill any remaining larvae (yes, really).
3. Store your clothes in mint condition
Moths are attracted to humid spaces: keep rooms and closets cool and well-ventilated.
When summer comes, clean wool coats, knitwear and other items you won’t wear often and store them in airless or vacuum-sealed bags with anti-moths balls or squares in them. Ask your store consultant for recommendations - we have lots of natural moths repellent products to choose from (see overleaf).
4. Stop moths returning
Place sachets made with dried rosemary, thyme, cloves, lavender, or bay leaves or sprinkle essential oils made from these herbs in your closet - they are all effective moths deterrents.
You can also use cedarwood hangers instead of plastic hangers (as plastic attracts dust and dust attracts moths) or place cedar-scented items in the pockets of your wool items for extra protection.