HOW TO TREAT A CLOTHES MOTH INFESTATION

• Do Not Use Mothballs! Mothballs are extremely toxic! They are proven carcinogens and may also damage the liver, kidneys and eyes. Concentrations high enough to be effective for pest control can be dangerous for anyone exposed to them. You do not want to have these chemicals anywhere near your skin!

• Many of the old moth ball formulations are now banned or not recommended. Safer alternatives exist, like lavender (dried, sachets or gel products). But these are not effective on larvae.

• The best way of killing adults, eggs and larvae is to deep freeze items. Seal them in plastic 'freezer' bags at -18C (-1F ) for at least two weeks.

• Rugs, carpets and upholstery are best treated in a commercial freezer or by a controlled heat process carried out by reputable companies.

• Clean all your woolens. Handwash sweaters and beat rugs outside. I handwash all my wool, but with coats and suits you may need to have it dry cleaned The dry cleaning removes most of the pests and eggs, but more importantly removes any residual oils or sweat… or baby food, which might attract the pests again.

• Steam them. This should kill any eggs that remain.

• Dry them well. Never store damp wool.

• Store them carefully. If you have a good, airtight cedar chest, use that. If you have garment bags made with durable materials (moth larvae can chew right through thin plastic) then you can hang wool garments sealed in that. Add some cedar blocks, oil, or other moth repellent potpourri to repel them and to cover the natural sulfur odor of wool. If you need to use a box or bin to store wool in, make certain that it is truly sealed.

HOW TO PREVENT A CLOTHES MOTH INFESTATION

• Take out items hanging up inside your wardrobe and shake them at least once a month – moths hate being disturbed.

• Regularly vacuum around the bottom and edges of wardrobes and any shelves.

• Be careful with any vintage or even new woolens you bring into your home. Check carefully for signs of webbing or ‘cases’ If you’re not sure put it in a freezer bag and freeze for 1-2 weeks before cleaning and storing with your other clothing.

• After using your vaccum cleaner always empty the contents into a black plastic bag. Seal it up and dispose of it in an outside bin.