How Can I Protect My Clothes From Clothes Moths?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
Protect woollens by cleaning items thoroughly before storage, using airtight containers instead of cardboard, and skipping misused mothballs. Clean, sealed storage stops moths from targeting your clothes.
Clothes moths target natural fibres like wool, silk, and fur—especially when items sit unused for months. These simple steps will keep your jumpers, blankets, and favourite pieces safe while stored away.
For help with an active infestation, Contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control for tailored advice.
Why Is Cleaning Clothes Before Storage The Most Important Step?
Moths don’t eat fabric directly—they feed on stains, sweat, food spills, and body oils trapped in fibres. Clean items with no residue are far less attractive to them.
Research from the US EPA shows 90% of clothes moth infestations start on items with unseen food or sweat stains, even if they look clean.
- Wash or dry‑clean all woollens before packing away
- Brush loose debris off coats and blankets
- Ensure items are 100% dry—dampness attracts more pests
What Storage Should I Use To Keep Moths Out?
Cardboard boxes and loose bags won’t stop moths—they can chew through or squeeze in through gaps. Always use airtight options.
| Storage Type | How Well It Blocks Moths | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cardboard Boxes | Poor — moths chew through easily | Not recommended for woollens |
| Airtight Plastic Containers | Excellent — full barrier | Long‑term storage |
| Heavy‑Duty Zip Bags | Good — seal fully | Limited space |
According to the Royal Horticultural Society, items stored unsealed are 5x more likely to get infested over summer.
Do Mothballs Actually Work — And Are They Safe?
Mothballs are pesticides—most people use them incorrectly. They only work in airtight containers with enough product to build up fumes; in open spaces they do nothing and can be harmful.
The NSW Health warns that improper use can expose people and pets to toxic vapours, and they rarely replace proper cleaning and sealing.
It’s better to focus on cleaning and airtight storage first. If you do find moths, carpet beetles, or silverfish, call us straight away on 1800 819 189 for safe, effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can moths damage synthetic clothes?
Rarely—they target natural fibres like wool, cashmere, silk, and fur. But blends with natural content are still at risk.
How often should I check stored woollens?
Every 2–3 months. Look for small holes, webbing, or larvae—early action stops spread.
What do I do if I already find moths?
Isolate affected items, wash or freeze them, and treat the area. Call us for professional removal before they spread further.
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Found Moths Or Damage? We Can Help
Don’t let moths ruin your favourite clothes. We remove infestations safely and stop them coming back.