Clothes moths can silently destroy your favorite garments, leaving behind holes and damaged fabrics, especially in wool, silk, and other natural fibers.
To get rid of clothes moths naturally, begin by thoroughly cleaning your clothes and storage spaces to eliminate larvae and eggs. Next, use natural repellents like cedarwood, lavender, and essential oils to deter moths without harmful chemicals. You can also set up traps to catch adult moths and prevent future infestations.
With the right steps, you can protect your clothes and maintain a moth-free wardrobe safely and effectively.
What are clothes moths and how do they cause damage
Clothes moths, specifically the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the casemaking clothes moth (Tinea pellionella), are small insects whose larvae feed on natural fibers. These pests are attracted to items like wool, silk, fur, and leather, making your favorite sweaters and garments a prime target.
Unlike pantry moths, clothes moths tend to avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas, such as closets, wardrobes, and under furniture.
The actual damage is caused by the larvae, not the adult moths. Adult moths lay eggs on fabrics, and when these eggs hatch, the larvae feed on keratin found in animal-based fibers. The larvae can chew through fabrics, leaving behind unsightly holes, making some clothes irreparable.
Common signs of a clothes moth infestation
Spotting clothes moths early can save your wardrobe from extensive damage. Here are some tell-tale signs of an infestation:
- Holes in clothing: Clothes moth larvae leave behind small, irregular holes in natural fabrics.
- Silky webbing: You might notice silky threads on the surface of clothes or in dark corners of your wardrobe.
- Shed larval casings: As larvae mature, they shed their skins. These casings look like tiny white or yellowish shells.
- Adult moths: Adult moths are small, beige, and often fly in a fluttering, erratic manner. Since they avoid light, they are usually found in dark, undisturbed spaces.
- Moth eggs: These are difficult to spot due to their tiny size, but they can often be found on the underside of garments or along the seams.
Why choose natural methods
While chemical treatments like mothballs and insecticides are readily available, they come with a host of risks. Mothballs release fumes that can be harmful if inhaled and often leave a lingering odor that’s difficult to remove from clothes.
Additionally, some chemicals can cause allergic reactions or pose risks to pets and children.
Natural methods are not only safer for your health and home but also highly effective at eliminating moths and preventing future infestations. You can achieve long-term moth control without relying on toxic chemicals by using ingredients like essential oils, cedar, and natural cleaning methods.
If you're dealing with lingering odors, especially those caused by mothballs, you can find more effective solutions by exploring how to get rid of the mothball smell from your clothes.
Deep cleaning your wardrobe
The first step in tackling a clothes moth infestation naturally is to thoroughly clean your wardrobe and affected clothes.
Since the eggs and larvae are the culprits behind the damage, a deep clean ensures you eliminate both visible and hidden threats.
How to clean your wardrobe:
- Empty the closet: Remove all clothing, linens, and other items from the wardrobe.
- Vacuum thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to get into every corner of the wardrobe, including shelves, floors, and seams. Vacuuming helps remove any hidden larvae, eggs, or debris.
- Wipe down surfaces: Use a solution of white vinegar and water to clean the inside of your wardrobe. Vinegar has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that will help remove any remaining larvae or eggs.
- Discard severely damaged items: Clothes with significant damage may need to be discarded. Items that are beyond repair will continue to harbor moth larvae.
How to clean your clothes:
- Wash clothes at a high temperature: Washing clothes in hot water (above 120°F/49°C) can kill moth eggs and larvae. If the fabric care instructions don’t allow for hot washing, you can also place the clothing in the freezer for 48 hours to kill the larvae.
- Dry clean delicate fabrics: For garments made from silk, wool, or other delicate materials, consider taking them to a professional dry cleaner. Make sure to mention the moth infestation so they can use appropriate cleaning methods.
- Ironing for added protection: After washing, you can also iron your clothes. The heat from ironing will kill any remaining larvae or eggs, ensuring they don’t hatch later.
If you're facing moisture problems or mold in addition to moths, it's a good idea to check out how to get mold out of your clothes and keep it out. This will help you protect your garments from all types of damage and keep them in great condition.
Best natural repellents to prevent clothes moths
Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned your wardrobe, the next step is to prevent moths from returning. Using natural repellents is an effective and safe way to protect your clothes and home without relying on harmful chemicals. Each of these natural solutions works by either deterring moths with strong scents or creating an inhospitable environment for them.
Let’s explore the best options available.
Cedarwood
Cedar is one of the most well-known natural moth repellents, and for good reason. It contains natural oils that repel moths, making it a highly effective solution for protecting clothes, especially those made of natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton. Cedarwood works by releasing aromatic oils that moths find unpleasant, driving them away before they can lay eggs on your clothes.
- Cedar blocks: Place cedar blocks in your wardrobe, drawers, and storage containers. They will release natural oils over time, creating a moth-repelling barrier around your clothes.
- Cedar rings for hangers: For hanging garments, use cedar rings on the neck of hangers to keep moths away from your clothes. These rings can be easily replaced or sanded down to refresh the scent.
- Cedar sachets: Cedar sachets, which are small bags filled with cedar chips, are a convenient way to spread the scent of cedar throughout your wardrobe.
- How to use cedarwood: Place cedar blocks, cedar chips sachets, or cedar rings in your wardrobe, drawers, or storage containers. You can also use cedar hangers for hanging delicate garments.
- Maintaining cedar's potency: Over time, the oils in cedarwood can lose their potency. To refresh its effectiveness, lightly sand the surface of the cedar blocks every few months. This will release more of the natural oils, ensuring the scent remains strong enough to repel moths.
Lavender
Lavender is not only a soothing and pleasant-smelling herb, but it’s also an excellent natural moth repellent. Moths dislike the strong scent of lavender, making it an effective deterrent for protecting your wardrobe.
- How to use lavender: You can place dried lavender sachets inside your drawers, wardrobe, or storage bins. Another option is to sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil onto cotton balls or fabric strips and place them in the corners of your closet. The lavender scent will keep moths away while leaving a refreshing fragrance on your clothes.
- Lavender’s added benefits: In addition to repelling moths, lavender helps keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean. Unlike chemical repellents, it won’t leave any unpleasant or overpowering odors behind.
Clove, Rosemary, and Thyme
Herbs like clove, rosemary, and thyme are known for their strong scents, which moths find unpleasant. These herbs work well as natural repellents and can be used individually or in combination for added effectiveness.
- How to use clove, rosemary, and thyme: Create small sachets using these dried herbs and place them in drawers, closets, or any storage areas where you keep clothes. These herbs can be mixed together to create a stronger scent or used on their own if you prefer a specific aroma.
- Refreshing herbal sachets: Over time, the scent of the herbs may fade. To maintain their effectiveness, replace the sachets every few months or add a few drops of essential oils like clove or rosemary to the herbs to extend their potency.
Cinnamon Sticks
Moths dislike the smell of cinnamon, making cinnamon sticks a simple and effective natural repellent. As an added bonus, cinnamon provides a warm, spicy scent to your storage spaces without being overpowering.
- How to use cinnamon sticks: Place whole cinnamon sticks in your drawers, wardrobe, or storage boxes. You can also use cinnamon-scented sachets or combine cinnamon sticks with other herbs like cloves and lavender for a stronger repellent effect.
- Long-lasting effectiveness: Cinnamon sticks tend to hold their scent for a long time, but if you notice the aroma fading, you can lightly crush the sticks or replace them with fresh ones to keep your wardrobe protected.
Vinegar
Vinegar is another powerful natural solution for repelling moths and maintaining a clean environment in your wardrobe. The strong scent of vinegar works to repel moths while also helping to eliminate any eggs or larvae that may be hiding in your storage areas.
- How to use vinegar: Create a simple cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Use this mixture to wipe down shelves, drawers, and the inside of your wardrobe. The vinegar will kill any remaining moth eggs and larvae while leaving behind a scent that deters adult moths from laying more eggs.
- Additional benefits of vinegar: Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent with antifungal and antibacterial properties, which makes it effective not only for repelling moths but also for keeping your wardrobe free of mold and mildew. If you’ve had issues with moisture or mold, vinegar can help keep both moths and mold at bay.
Mint and Eucalyptus
Mint and eucalyptus are two other powerful herbs with moth-repelling properties. Their strong, fresh scents are highly effective at keeping moths away, and they also have antibacterial qualities that help maintain a clean storage environment.
- How to use mint and eucalyptus: Place dried mint leaves or eucalyptus branches in sachets and store them in your wardrobe or drawers. Alternatively, you can use eucalyptus or mint essential oils by placing a few drops on cotton balls or fabric strips and leaving them in your storage spaces.
- Eucalyptus as a cleaning agent: In addition to its use as a repellent, eucalyptus oil can be diluted with water and used as a natural cleaner for wiping down shelves and closet surfaces, much like vinegar. This not only repels moths but also helps keep your wardrobe fresh and clean.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are another excellent natural remedy for moth prevention. The strong, pungent smell of bay leaves drives away moths and other pests, making them ideal for keeping your wardrobe moth-free.
- How to use bay leaves: Scatter a few dried bay leaves in your drawers or hang them in sachets in your closet. You can also place bay leaves directly on your clothes or in between folds to add an extra layer of protection. Be sure to replace the leaves when their scent starts to fade.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is known for its refreshing scent, but it’s also highly effective at repelling moths. Moths can’t tolerate the strong smell, making peppermint oil a great option for protecting your clothes naturally.
- How to use peppermint oil: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to cotton balls and place them in your wardrobe, drawers, or storage containers. Alternatively, you can create a spray by mixing water and peppermint oil and lightly misting your closet or storage spaces. Be careful not to spray directly onto delicate fabrics to avoid staining.
- Refreshing with peppermint: Like other essential oils, peppermint oil will lose its potency over time. To keep it effective, refresh the cotton balls or spray every few weeks to ensure the scent remains strong enough to repel moths.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. It’s completely safe for humans and pets but deadly to insects. When moth larvae or other pests come into contact with diatomaceous earth, it damages their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
- How to use diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in the corners of your closet, along baseboards, or in other storage areas where moth larvae may be hiding. Be sure to use a fine dusting to avoid creating excess residue. Leave it in place for a few days, then vacuum it up to remove any dead larvae or insects.
- Safety note: Make sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other forms of the powder may not be safe for household use. Always wear a mask when applying it to avoid inhaling the dust.
Citrus Peels
The natural oils found in citrus peels, such as orange and lemon, act as a natural moth repellent. Moths find the sharp citrus smell unpleasant, which helps deter them from your clothing and storage areas.
- How to use citrus peels: Save orange, lemon, or lime peels and allow them to dry out completely. Once dry, place the peels in small sachets or scatter them in drawers, closets, or other storage spaces. You can also combine citrus peels with herbs like lavender or mint for a multi-scented moth repellent.
- Refreshing citrus scents: Citrus peels will eventually lose their scent, so replace them regularly to keep the repellent effective.
How to use essential oils for moth prevention
Essential oils are a powerful, natural way to repel clothes moths. Oils like lavender, peppermint, cedarwood, and eucalyptus can deter moths and other pests without introducing harmful chemicals into your home.
Here’s how to use essential oils for moth prevention:
- Spray solution: Mix a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender or cedarwood) with water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist your wardrobe, drawers, and storage spaces. Avoid spraying directly on delicate fabrics to prevent staining.
- Essential oil diffusers: Place a diffuser with moth-repelling essential oils in your closet or storage area to keep the scent circulating. This will create an environment that moths dislike.
- Scented cotton balls: Dab essential oils onto cotton balls or small pieces of cloth and place them in drawers, on closet shelves, or inside garment bags.
How to trap moths without chemicals
While most of the damage is done by moth larvae, removing adult moths is an important step to prevent them from laying more eggs.
Here are some natural ways to trap and remove adult moths:
- Sticky moth traps: Pheromone traps, which attract adult moths and trap them on a sticky surface, are a highly effective way to reduce the moth population. These traps are chemical-free and can be placed around your wardrobe.
- Vinegar and water solution: Wipe down surfaces with a solution of white vinegar and water to deter moths from laying eggs in your wardrobe. Vinegar’s strong scent is unpleasant to moths, making them less likely to stay.
- Clothing rotation: Moths are attracted to undisturbed, dark areas. Regularly airing out and rotating the clothes in your wardrobe can help prevent moths from settling in. Shaking out garments and exposing them to sunlight can also help remove any eggs or larvae that may be hiding.
Storing your clothes to prevent future infestations
Prevention is key when it comes to clothes moths. Once you’ve eliminated the infestation and cleaned your wardrobe, proper storage will help prevent moths from returning.
- Use airtight containers: For out-of-season or infrequently worn clothes, store them in airtight containers or garment bags to keep moths out. If you choose plastic containers, make sure they’re completely sealed.
- Vacuum-sealed bags: While vacuum-sealed bags are not ideal for all fabrics, they can be useful for storing clothes that you don’t plan to wear for a long time. Be cautious with delicate fabrics, as long-term compression can damage them.
- Regularly clean and inspect clothes: Clean your clothes and storage areas regularly to prevent dust, dirt, and oils from building up. Regular inspections can help you spot moth activity early before it becomes a full infestation.
Maintaining a moth-free wardrobe naturally
The best way to maintain a moth-free wardrobe is through a combination of regular cleaning, natural repellents, and proper storage techniques.
Incorporating moth-repelling herbs, essential oils, and cedarwood into your wardrobe helps deter future infestations while keeping your clothes fresh and safe from pests.
Regularly airing out your clothes and checking for signs of moths will ensure your garments stay protected year-round.
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