Moth Prevention for Your Home

Incidents of moth infestations have been steadily and noticeably increasing in recent times in the UK, most markedly in city centres. A rise in climate temperature and use of central heating, and a move towards a preference for natural fibres are considered significant factors.

Holes in your garments are a strong indication that clothing moths are present within your home. The moths themselves are rarely seen. The clothes moths larvae feed on keratin protein, which is found in natural fibres including silk, leather, wool and cashmere. Unfortunately, this often results in your most expensive and precious items of clothing being ruined.

Here are some tips to help you remove the source of the problem, and prevent further clothing damage in an eco-friendly way:

1) Empty your affected drawers and cupboards and thoroughly vacuum the entire area, making sure you get into all the nooks and crannies, and also vacuum the surrounding carpets and skirting boards in the room to ensure that all the larvae has been removed.

2) Thoroughly clean all the clothing that has been in the affected area.

3) Use moth spray in the cupboards, wardrobes and drawers to kill all the eggs and larvae that are present and causing the damage.

4) Use natural moth repellent and deterrent products. Natural moth repellents include moth pheromone traps, scented anti-moth products such as lavender, natural moth sprays, cedar balls and drawer liners. Additional storage such as protective bags for expensive garments may also be considered.

5) Install moth traps in the affected areas to monitor the presence of adult moths and to break the breeding cycle. Remember to replace your deterrents on a regular basis, two to four times per year, and this should result in a moth-free environment.

Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after using any of the described treatments. Masks and gloves may also be worn, often supplied in treatment kits. Remove children and pets from the room before commencing treatment and do not use near food preparation areas.

Using a combination of these treatment products works effectively to get rid of moth infestations - a single product on its own may not yield the same successful results.