5 Ways to Get Rid of Clothes Moths

Clothes moths can be a frustrating nuisance for anyone who values their wardrobe.

These tiny pests, often found in dark, undisturbed areas of your home, feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton, leading to unsightly holes in your favorite garments.

Understanding what clothes moths are and how to combat them is essential for protecting your clothing.

In this post, we are going to explore five effective ways to get rid of clothes moths and prevent future infestations.

Let’s dive in!

What Are Clothes Moths?

Clothes moths are small, winged insects belonging to the family Tineidae.

The two most common species that infest homes are the webbing clothes moth and the casemaking clothes moth.

Adult moths are typically about 1/2 inch long and have a dull, golden or brown appearance.

While the adults are harmless, their larvae are the real culprits, feeding on natural fibers and causing significant damage to clothing and textiles.

1. Cedarwood Planks and Hangers

One of the most effective natural remedies for repelling clothes moths is the use of cedarwood planks and hangers.

Cedar has a natural scent that deters moths and their larvae, making it an excellent addition to your closet or storage areas.

Simply place cedar planks on shelves or hang cedar hangers in your closet to create an environment that moths find unappealing.

To maintain their effectiveness, lightly sand the cedar occasionally to refresh the scent.

My personal favorite cedarwood products are Professor Killamoth’s Cedar Planks & Hangers, Rings, Balls & Sachets Variety Pack.

The cedarwood products in this 61-pack offer a natural and effective way to keep your home fresh and protect your belongings from pests.

The strong, pleasant aroma of cedar acts as a natural repellent, deterring stink bugs, moths, and other insects from invading your closets, drawers, and other storage areas.

By strategically placing the cedar blocks, sachets, rings, and balls throughout your home, you can enjoy a fresh, clean scent while also keeping unwanted moths at bay without using harsh chemicals.

2. Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial in preventing clothes moth infestations.

Vacuum your closets, drawers, and storage areas frequently to remove any moth eggs or larvae.

Pay special attention to corners, crevices, and areas where dust accumulates.

After vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent any trapped moths from escaping.

Additionally, washing your clothes regularly, especially those made from natural fibers, can help eliminate any potential pests.

3. Use Moth Traps

Moth traps can be a helpful tool in monitoring and controlling clothes moth populations.

These traps typically use pheromones to attract male moths, preventing them from mating and thus reducing the population over time.

Place traps in your closets and storage areas to catch moths before they can lay eggs.

Regularly check and replace the traps as needed to ensure their effectiveness.

4. Store Clothes Properly

Proper storage techniques can significantly reduce the risk of clothes moth infestations.

When storing seasonal clothing, make sure to clean and dry them thoroughly before putting them away.

Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent moths from accessing your clothes.

Adding cedar chips or lavender sachets to storage containers can provide additional protection against moths while leaving your clothes smelling fresh.

5. Consult a Pest Control Professional

If you find that your efforts to eliminate clothes moths are not effective, it may be time to consult a pest control professional.

They can assess the extent of the infestation and recommend targeted treatments to eliminate moths from your home.

Professional pest control services often use safe and effective methods to ensure that your clothing and living areas remain protected from these pests.

Clothes Moths Begone!

Getting rid of clothes moths requires a combination of prevention and active management.

By using cedarwood, maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, employing moth traps, storing clothes properly, and seeking professional help when needed, you can protect your wardrobe from these damaging pests.

With these strategies in place, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your clothes are safe from moths.

Thank you for reading!