How to Prevent Moth Holes in Clothing

Protect your wool sweaters from being eaten by moths.

The white larvae of webbing clothes moths feed on wool and other animal fibers, as well as feathered clothing. If your clothes are not protected or stored properly, you may have had the experience of opening a clothing box to find the apparel are full of moth holes. Consider taking precautions to prevent moths from making meals out of your favorite fabrics in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Cedar wood
• Hammer
• Moth balls
• Nails
• Cedar planks
• Cedar balls
• Cedar bags

Instructions

1. Line your closet or storage area with cedar wood. This is the one of the best ways to keep moths away.

2. Purchase cedar bags from your dry cleaner. These bags can be used to hang over certain items, such as wool garments, to keep moths out.

3. Put moth or cedar balls in your closet or storage area.

4. Keep your favorite clothes in cold storage if possible. A cold attic during winter may prove an inhospitable environment for moths because larvae don't grow in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Clean your closet and drawers regularly. Remove all the items from the closet area, and vacuum everything. Removing any lint on the floor or in drawers deprives larvae of food sources. Store all cleaned clothes in sealed plastic bags.

Tips & Warnings

• You can buy cedar planks and nail them on the inside of your existing closet walls or storage building, or lay them on your closet floor.

• The odor of cedar or moth balls can cause nausea or stuffy noses.

References

• Pest Control Canada: Clothes moths