Tools and Materials
Tools
Vacuum Cleaner with a Hose Attachment
- Dehumidifier
Materials
Lavender Sachets
- Cedarwood Blocks
Sachets
- Mothballs
Moth Traps
- Bins
- Vacuum-sealed Bags
Cleaning Cloths
7 Steps on How to Get Rid of Closet Moths
Following the steps below, you can get rid of closet moths.
First, identify the type of moths in your closet. Clothes moths are the most common problem. They lay eggs on fabrics and the larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk and cotton. If you notice holes in your clothes or see moths flying around, it’s time to act.
If you have a severe moth infestation, wear gloves and a safety mask while handling infested clothing or items to avoid direct contact with larvae or eggs.
A deep cleaning session is one of the first steps in keeping moths out of your closet. Moths hide in dark, undisturbed places. Remove all clothes from your closet. Vacuum every corner, including shelves, baseboards and cracks, to remove larvae, eggs and adult moths.
Wash all your clothes before putting them back. Dry cleaning is a good alternative if you can’t wash some items. Clean clothes repel moths, so this step is crucial.
Be careful while vacuuming, especially in tight spaces. Some vacuum cleaners may not have fine enough filters to catch tiny moth eggs. Make sure to empty the vacuum immediately after use to prevent reinfestation.
To keep moths away, use natural moth repellents. Cedarwood block is a popular choice and can be placed in your closet to deter moths. Lavender sachets are also effective and have a pleasant scent.
For stronger protection, try mothballs or moth traps. Place them in corners or behind clothing where moths tend to hide.
If you choose to use mothballs, keep them out of reach of children and pets. Mothballs contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. Follow all manufacturer instructions carefully.
Closet moths thrive well in dark, humid spaces. To help rid moths from the closet, ensure your closet is well-ventilated. Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate. If possible, install a dehumidifier to reduce moisture, making the environment less inviting for moths.
If using a dehumidifier, ensure its placed away from clothing to avoid any risk of damage from condensation.
For seasonal clothes or items, you don’t use often, store them in airtight containers. Vacuum-sealed bags or plastic storage bags are also effective ways to keep moths away.
Ensure clothes are completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Storing damp clothing can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which could cause further damage.
Inspect your closet often to prevent a full-blown infestation. Check for small holes in clothes or adult moths flying around. Early detection makes it much easier to get rid of the problem before it spreads.
Be cautious when handling clothes that show signs of infestation. Moth larvae may be hiding in fabric folds, so handle with care and consider using a magnifying glass to inspect thoroughly.
If you’ve tried everything and moths persist, it’s time to call a professional pest control service. They can offer more powerful treatments to completely eliminate the infestation.
Following these steps to keep moths out of your closet, you can protect your clothes and ensure your closet stays moth-free. Regular cleaning, natural repellents and proper storage are key to keeping moths away for good.