Natural Moth Repellent in Closets

Cedar

• Cedar is well-known for its moth-repelling qualities and is often used in high-quality wooden trunks or closets. The volatile oils in cedar are what make it unattractive to moths. These oils, however, can dissipate after several years. If you have an older cedar closet, resand it to try to release more volatile oils. If you still have a consistent moth problem, consider replacing or relining the closet. Relining noncedar closets with cedar wood is also an effective option. For a less expensive method, purchase cedar blocks at lumberyards or cedar shavings at pet supply stores. Place several of these blocks or several cedar shaving sachets in closets to help deter moths.

Herbs

• Several herbs are thought to repel moths, according to experts at New Mexico State University. These include eucalyptus, pennyroyal, lavender and tansy. Place an even mixture of these dried herbs in sachets and place them in your closet. Be careful, however, not to ingest these plants, as some are toxic. "Yes!" magazine authors suggest filling satchets with the following moth-repelling dried herb mixture and placing the sachets in closets and clothing drawers: 2 ounces rosemary, 2 ounces mint, 1 ounce thyme, 1 ounce ginseng, 8 ounces whole cloves.

Cleaning Methods

• Food stains and body oils can attract insects, so be sure your clothes are clean before putting them away. Wash and dry clothing on the hottest setting the fabric can handle; high heat kills all stages of the moth's life cycle. Vacuum all carpets, shelves and walls in closets to rid the area of eggs and larvae. This is especially important, because it is the barely noticeable larvae that eat fabric, not the adults.

Conquering an Infestation

• If an infestation has already occurred, you must conquer it before moving on to deterrent methods. If clothing cannot handle high heat in the washer or dryer, place it in an air-tight plastic bag, remove all excess air and place the bag in a freezer for 72 hours or more. This will kill all stages of moths. Then wash and dry the items on the hottest setting possible. If these are not options, dry clean the clothing. This will also kill moth eggs, larvae and adults.