As the warm spring sunshine finally arrives, so can an unwelcome guest - the clothes moth. These pesky little creatures can be a problem all year round, but spring often sees a noticeable increase in their activity. The warmer weather encourages them to hatch from their winter cocoons and begin their search for dark, out-of-sight and undisturbed spaces. Wardrobes, drawers and under rugs and furniture tick all the boxes for their ideal nesting spot, In particular, a disorganised and cluttered wardrobe with piles of clothing lurking at the back, is a haven for moths to thrive. A spring clean is a perfect time to check these key hotspots.
Natural Solutions to Ward Off Moths
Deep Cleaning
Take everything out of your wardrobe and chest of drawers and vacuum the interior thoroughly, using the crevice tool to reach into the nooks and corners. Wipe down surfaces with a cloth and hot water and vinegar solution, or a suitable cleaning product, such as Sodasan’s Power Cleaner.
Look After Your Clothes
Don’t put woollies away dirty. Although woollen clothes don’t need washing nearly as often as other fabrics because of wool’s natural antibacterial properties, it is best to put them away clean at the end of the season. This is because moths are attracted to perspiration, dust, hair, dead skin cells and any food or debris trapped in the fabric.
Thoroughly check over each garment for damage - if you have moths, you'll notice small holes in your clothes and fabrics - then wash them with a good wool wash, such as Amytis Eco Wool & Silk Laundry Liquid (being sure to check labels on all clothes before washing), to leave clothing clean, feeling super soft and smelling fresh.
If you think there might be wool moths, the advice is to wash and dry clothes, then seal them up tight in plastic bags and put them in the freezer for at least 48 hours and up to 2 weeks. This is to kill anything that might still be in the garments, that washing alone won’t remove.
To store off-season woolly clothes, whether hanging or folding, cedar blocks or lavender or cedar sachets will help to deter moths naturally. Be careful to protect clothes with a sheet of paper or tissue, if using an oily product. If necessary, zipped plastic bags or airtight containers with keep moths out.
Clean Carpets and Furniture
Vacuum carpets diligently, particularly under furniture or rugs. If any evidence of moth damage is found, treat the affected areas with a moth-killer spray - there are some environmentally friendly options that are an alternative to chemical insecticides - to prevent further spread.
Ventilate Your Wardrobe
Every now and again, air your wardrobe and let light into those dark corners -moths thrive in musty spaces and they don’t like bright sunlight.
By keeping your storage areas clean, using natural repellents, and ensuring proper care of your garments, you can stay ahead of the moths, and keep your home fresh all year round.
How to Clean Wool Items
Wool clothes don’t need washing nearly as often as other fabrics, because of wool’s natural antibacterial properties. Airing is a natural and straightforward way of freshening items up and removing odours between wears. Although airing clothes outside will make them fresher, simply hanging them outside your drawers or wardrobe will make a noticeable difference.
Always read the care label before you even think about washing your woollen garments:
Dry Clean – some items labels will say dry clean only, in particular woollen blankets or expensive items. Occasionally, hanging the wool blanket outside for a few hours will help to freshen it.
Machine Washing - Always read the care label first and be careful! Use a gentle wool shampoo on a delicate or wool cycle and placing your item in a mesh bag can help protect the garment from the mechanical action of the machine. As soon as the cycle has finished, take the item out to reduce creasing, and then lay it flat to dry. Never use a tumble dryer.
Handwashing - This is gentlest way to keep your wool looking fresh. Fill your sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of wool detergent. Add your garment, making sure that you completely submerge it, gently swirl and squeeze it and leave it to soak. Rinse thoroughly in cool water again, then squeeze gently to remove excess water. Fold a shower towel in half and place the woollen item on top, then roll the towel up. Gently squeeze until the towel is wet, then unroll and remove the wool item, reshape it and lay it flat to dry.