How to Get Rid of Cloth Moths When Mothballs Don't Work

Determine the source of the moth infestation. Examine each item of stored clothing, to figure out whether it's an individual garment or the specific storage area.

Clean any infested articles of clothing. Shake the items vigorously and, if possible, run a soft-bristle brush over the surface to crush any existing moth larvae or eggs. Then hang the items in the sun for a few hours.

Wash the items in hot water -- at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit -- with laundry detergent, and then tumble or line dry. Or have them dry cleaned, if the label specifies "dry clean only."

Vacuum and clean the storage area or room where the moth infestation was found. Use an appropriate cleaning solvent to wipe down any affected surface areas, and then allow them to dry fully. Vacuum the floor of the storage area or room, as well as the floor nearby, and discard the vacuum bag immediately after use.

Freeze the clean, dry garments at a temperature of at least -15 degrees F for at least three days.

Store the clothes in airtight containers, such a large plastic bins with resealable lids, to help prevent future moth infestations. Then return the items to the clean, vacuumed storage area.