Moths may seem innocuous to us, but these unassuming insects can inflict serious harm on our wardrobes and household fabrics. Far more than a mere nuisance, moth infestations can silently consume sweaters, scarves, carpets—even treasured books—leaving behind tiny, irregular holes and frayed fibers. Their resilience makes eradication a challenge: once moth larvae spin their protective cocoons, they emerge weeks later as fully formed moths ready to reproduce and perpetuate the cycle.
Fortunately, there are a handful of eco-friendly, inexpensive strategies you can employ to keep these fabric-eaters at bay. Below are several proven, all-natural methods to protect your clothing, rugs, and other vulnerable items without resorting to harsh chemicals.
What are moths?
Moths are a type of winged insect that can be found throughout the world. The average size of most moths is a little over an inch in wingspan. However, some species of moths – such as the pygmy moth – have a wingspan as small as 3/32 of an inch, while others, like the giant Atlas moth, can have a wingspan as big as 12 inches.
Both butterflies and moths are members of the insect order Lepidoptera. Around the world, it’s estimated that there are around 17,500 species of butterflies and a whopping 160,000 species of moths. In the United States alone, it’s believed that there are nearly 11,000 species of moths.
Tips to get rid of moths in your closet and clothes forever
1. Lemongrass Sachets
Lemongrass emits a refreshing citrus aroma that moths find intolerable. To harness its repellent properties:
- Chop fresh lemongrass leaves into small pieces (watch out for the sharp edges!).
- Fill small muslin or breathable fabric sachets with the chopped leaves.
- Tuck these sachets into dresser drawers, wardrobes, or wherever you’ve noticed tiny holes appearing.
- Refresh the contents every two weeks to maintain a strong scent barrier.
The sharp, fragrant oils in lemongrass disrupt the moths’ sensory receptors, discouraging them from laying eggs on or near your fabrics.
2. Lavender Spritz and Sachets
Classic and versatile, lavender does double duty as a pleasant fragrance and a moth deterrent:
- Combine several drops of pure lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist your garments before ironing—both to smooth out wrinkles and to deposit lavender on the fibers.
- Alternatively, create lavender sachets by filling small cloth bags with dried lavender buds; place them amidst your folded clothes and along closet shelves.
The long-lasting aroma of lavender masks the natural scents moths seek and keeps them from settling in your fabrics.
3. Vinegar Furniture Polish
White vinegar is acidic enough to repel moths, yet gentle enough for most household surfaces:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Test on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure compatibility with the material.
- Lightly mist wooden furniture, shelving, or any hard surface where eggs or larvae might be lurking.
- Wipe down with a clean, soft cloth.
This simple vinegar solution not only deters moths but also helps remove dust and grime, giving your furniture a subtle shine.
4. High-Heat Ironing
Moth eggs and newly hatched larvae can be nearly invisible to the naked eye. A blast of high heat is one of the most effective ways to destroy them:
- Set your iron to its hottest safe setting for the fabric.
- Iron each garment thoroughly, paying special attention to seams, hems, and folds where eggs are most likely to be concealed.
- Allow the clothes to cool completely before returning them to storage.
This method ki.lls any lingering eggs or larvae without introducing chemicals into your wardrobe.
5. Thorough Vacuuming
Vacuuming isn’t just for removing dust bunnies—regular, careful suctioning is essential to eliminate cocoons and larvae:
- Vacuum all floor areas, especially under furniture, along baseboards, and in the corners where a broom can’t reach.
- Pay attention to rugs and carpets, as they are favorite sites for moth development.
- After vacuuming, immediately empty the canister or replace the vacuum bag to prevent any survivors from escaping back into your home.
A clean environment disrupts the moths’ life cycle and reduces the number of new adults emerging.
Why You Should Avoid Mothballs
Traditionally, mothballs containing naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene have been used to repel fabric pests.
However, the toxic fumes they release are harmful to humans and pets, potentially causing headaches, skin and eye irritation, respiratory distress, and even organ damage over time.
Because of these serious health risks, safer, natural alternatives—and specialized non-toxic products available on the market—are strongly recommended.
