How to Deter Moths From Wool

Moths are pests that lay larvae, resulting in damage to clothes.

It's disappointing to pull out your favorite wool sweater and realize that moths have attacked it. Not only do moths create small, irreparable holes, but they also lay their larvae on wool. The larvae chew through the wool and leave the garment damaged. People typically deal with moths by placing mothballs on and around the clothes. Although mothballs are effective in deterring moths, they are dangerous to young children and leave a distinctive unpleasant odor. The good news is there are other methods of deterring moths and keeping the pesky creatures off your wool garments.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic container
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Identify and separate your wool clothing. If you are not sure which items are made of wool, check the garment label.

2. Place wool items in the coolest place possible. If you have space in your freezer, consider placing items inside until they are cold. Extreme cold and freezing temperatures will kill all eggs and larvae that may already exist on your wool clothes. If placing the clothes in the freezer is not practical, you can also put the clothes outside on a cold day. After freezing or placing in the cold, immediately store the items.

3. Store your wool items in sealed containers. If the moths are not able to lay eggs, your clothes will be spared. Simply placing your clothes in a drawer will not provide enough protection from the moths and their larvae. Placing items in a cedar chest will deter moths, but the cedar will leave a distinctive odor on your clothes.

4. Sprinkle black pepper on your will items. Moths do not like black pepper and will stay away from items that have the seasoning on it. For added protection, wrap the garment in paper or place in a bag after putting the pepper on it. Keep in mind, the idea is to lightly sprinkle and not cover the entire garment with pepper.

Tips & Warnings

• Chemical deterrents such as mothballs and flakes are effective in deterring moths but are toxic and leave an unpleasant odor on your clothes.

References

• The Consumerist; It Turns Out Mothballs Aren't Just Bad for Moths; Phil Villarreal; Feb. 8, 2011
• Washington State University; Clothing Moths; January 2005
• How to Get Of Things: How to Get Rid Of Moths
• Ecclesia: Handy Hints

Resources

• EarthEasy: Natural Insect Pest Control