The Common Clothes Moth (Tineola Bisselliella) can wreck your favourite clothes beyond repair. Worse still, they can spread and destroy your entire wardrobe if not put into check early.
The good news is that there are some simple and effective steps you can take right away to protect your wardrobe from these unwelcome guests.
In this article, we'll share 10 proven strategies on how to stop moths from eating your clothes.
#1 Know Your Moths
Understand that there are several types of moths in the UK. If you are concerned about moths eating your clothes you need to look out for the Common Clothes Moth (Tineola Bisselliella). It feeds entirely on animal fibres such as wool, fur, silk and leather. Common Clothes Moths are small and beige, have narrow wings that are fringed with small hairs. They prefer dark, quiet areas and are seldom seen.
#2 Clean Before Storing
Always clean clothes before storing them, especially if they're made of natural fibres like wool, silk, or fur. Moths are attracted to the oils, sweat, and food particles on dirty clothes.
#3 Use Airtight Containers or Bags
Store seasonal clothing or other items you don't plan to use in airtight containers or bags to shield them from moth invasions. This also helps to keep the garments fresh and ready for their next use.
#4 Employ Natural Repellents
Cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or a combination of dried herbs can repel moths. Place these natural deterrents in your closets and drawers where clothes are stored.
#5 Vacuum Regularly
Moths love to lay eggs in undisturbed, dark places. Regular vacuuming under furniture and in closets can disrupt their life cycle.
#6 Catch and Monitor with Moth Traps
Install moth traps or hangers in your closet to catch and monitor moth activity. This will help you gauge the severity of a moth problem.
#7 Maintain a Clean Closet
Regularly clean your closet, paying special attention to corners and hidden spots. A clean closet is less inviting to moths.
#8 Seal Cracks and Openings
Ensure that your home, especially storage areas for clothes, is well-sealed. Check for and seal any cracks or openings where moths might enter and close these off.
#9 Opt for Professional Cleaning
For items that are difficult to clean at home, professional dry cleaning can effectively kill moth eggs and larvae. Think about this for your heavy coats and delicate materials such as wool, silk and fur.
#10 Stay Vigilant
Regularly inspect your clothes for signs of moth damage. Early detection can prevent widespread damage and save your wardrobe from total ruin.
Final Word
By incorporating most of these tips into your clothing care routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of moth damage to your clothes. Protecting your clothes from moths not only preserves your favourite clothing items but can also saves you time and money in the long run.
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our DIY moth control products are effective, safe & easy-to-use. You may also find our expert guide useful if you want to learn more about getting rid of moths from your home or workplace.
