Cleaning Tip: How To Avoid Moth Damage

Flickr photo by Ivy Dawned

Insects are most attracted to animal fibers such as wool, cashmere, silk, down, leather and mohair as well as other natural fibers such as linen and cotton. But they will also dine on synthetics stained with food, drink, sweat, or blood, so make sure clothing is put away clean. Mothballs not only smell bad, they also contain toxic chemicals. Cedar and lavender are natural pest repellents and work well when stored with clothing in an airtight container. If critters have eaten holes in your clothing, dry-clean or wash items in hot water to kill pests and their eggs. Or put the affected piece and others nearby in a plastic bag and freeze for seventy-two hours, as moths and their larvae cannot survive frigid temperatures. Always clean the storage area thoroughly before putting clothes back.

Looking for the most effective way to ward off moths? Check out these 8 methods that we put to the the test.

For more cleaning tips, check out What's A Disorganized Person To Do?