Keeping Clothes Safe From Moths

For some strange reason, certain types of moths have an attraction to clothes, particularly woolen ones. Traditionally speaking, you can avoid many moth infestations by using cedar chips or moth balls. However, there are times when these types of remedies simply will not be a viable option for keeping clothes safe from moths. Whether it is because you are allergic to cedar, don't like the toxic nature of many moth balls, or for some other reason doesn't really matter. Use these alternative methods when the traditional ones won't cut it.

• Identify and clean. The best possible way to keep clothes safe from moths is to ensure that there isn't an infestation to begin with. Do this by regularly checking the areas that the clothes will be stored in, and ensuring that it is moth free. Indications that you have moth larvae in the area include unexplained holes in the carpeting, or even in the clothes themselves, as well as some silky "webs" that appear in areas such as closets. The larvae themselves actually have the appearance of large grains or rice that wriggle around a lot. If you see any signs of such infestations, remove all clothing from the area and have them professionally cleaned. Also, do an in depth cleaning of the area using warm soapy water, carpet cleaners, and vacuum cleaners.
• Storage. Store any clothes in air tight containers; but only do so after they have been checked for any eggs or larvae. Place some of the odiferous options listed below in the container to help prevent any moths from being attracted to the clothes. Generally speaking, moths do not like things that have a strong scent, so by using them you will be taking steps to protect your clothes. Place some of these preventative measures inside the storage area as well, to provide another layer of protection.
• Bay leaves. Bay leaves have a nice pleasant aroma that moths cannot stand. Place one or two leaves into a sweater bag, and place three or four into a garment bag. This method also works well on preventing moth infestations in your pasta and cereal.
• Lavender. Whether lavender works as well as cedar chips is frankly a matter still up for debate. What isn't really up for debate is the fact that lavender does work. Use some lavender flowers in the same way that you would cedar chips. Keep in mind though that you will need to replace the lavender once a month, since it will lose its effectiveness over time.
• Hand soap. Instead of throwing away the blocks of hand soap when they get too small, let them dry out, and put them to a different use. This item will work at keeping moths away from your woolen clothes. Simply place a bar between your woolen garments, and the moths will end up taking a detour.