Lavender and Cedar to Repel Moths

Clothing Moth Types

• The two types of clothing moths are the casemaking and webbing moth. The casemaking clothes moth is known as the Tinea pellionella. The webbing clothes moth is known as the Tineola bisselliella. Casemaking clothes moths are caterpillars that spin protective cases into which they incorporate the pieces of fibers they eat. They drag the cases as they move, spinning them into tough cocoons; insect pupae grow into adult moths. Webbing clothes moths work differently, forming feeding tubes by spinning a silken web. They then attach their silken creations to the clothing they eat.

Prevention and Control

• Prevention and control are the first steps in a plan to keep these destructive insects away. Good housekeeping habits are essential to both preventing and repelling clothing moths. Vacuuming is the ideal way to ensure that eggs, larvae, pupae and adult moths are kept away. It is important to vacuum the walls, shelves and floors of closets since these are the places where moths are likely to hide. Clean all clothing prior to packing it away in storage. Dry cleaning can kill eggs, larvae, pupae and the adult moths. Repellent vapors are only effective if sufficient lethal concentrations are maintained consistently for long enough. Storage places are only effective if tightly sealed.

Cedar And Lavender

• To be effective against damage to clothing, cedar chests and closets must close tightly and be constructed with a minimum of a 3/4-inch layer of cedar heartwood. This thickness is necessary to prevent oils from evaporating. Cedar chips, sprays and oils in any type of container are ineffective because they lack sufficient concentrations of oil to provide necessary protection. The value of cedar chests lies in their ability to kill newly hatched larvae.

  According to the Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program at the University of California, research studies involving gel-filled sachets made from lavender oil are underway. These sachets are designed for use in boxes, drawers and closets. Efficacy is still undetermined, but lavender is helpful for masking the odor of moth balls. Although people place lavender leaves and flowers in drawers, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has proved that many herbs, including lavender flowers, are ineffective as a moth deterrent.

Moth Ball Products

• Moth balls, crystals and flakes are toxic to children and animals. Paradichlorobenzene is one common ingredient in moth balls, and it is harmful to the liver and kidneys. Naphthalene is another common component used in moth flakes and balls. This strong-smelling solid white substance is poisonous and changes or destroys red blood cells, preventing them from carrying oxygen. Long-term exposure can cause hemolytic anemia, liver or kidney damage, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. People who breathe naphthalene may also develop cataracts.