Moths...those cashmere gobbling pests!

Well, it is finally that time of year. We are rummaging in the attic, digging in our closets to find our favorite cozy knits. Gasp! You discover your favorite camel cashmere has a hole, then you notice two and pretty soon you realize you no longer have a sweater, but a cashmere doily. I can't help your sweater this year, but remember these handy tips when the Spring rolls back around:

Here are several time-proven home remedies to try:



Lavender

Fill sachets with dried lavender, or dip cotton balls in lavender oil. Then, place in closets, drawers and any other places where clothes are stored.

Mint

Dried mint leaves are another effective moth repellent. Place several leaves in a sachet, or place loose leaves among your clothes.

Cedar

Cedar wood has long been recognized as a moth repellent, and for good reason – it works. If you're lucky enough to have a cedar-lined closet or chest, be sure to make use of it. Otherwise, pick up some cedar chips or blocks from the store, and place them where needed.
Note: Cedar loses its scent (the repellent aspect) over time. To bring the scent back, sand the cedar lightly, or purchase and bottle of cedar oil, and apply it to the wood.



Cloves, Thyme, Ginseng and Rosemary


Fill a sachet with one or a combination of these four herbs to keep moths at bay for months.


Clothing Storage Tips

Clean Clothes Before Storing


Wash all clothing, and dry it in the sun before packing it away at the end of the season. This will help to kill any larvae that may be present in the clothing. Cotton garments can also be ironed as a further deterrent.

Store Clothing in Sealed Containers

Store clothing in sealed containers—chests, plastic storage containers, suitcases, etc.—where moths can't get to them.

Store Clothing in a Dry Place

Moths prefer moist environments, so store your clothes in a dry area of your home.

Vacuum

Moths gravitate towards dirt, so vacuum your carpets and baseboards regularly to prevent an infestation or to eliminate an existing infestation.

Note: If you're dealing with a current infestation, change your vacuum bag regularly to ensure you're getting the larvae out of your home.



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