Discovering moths close to your precious yarns or knitwear is a terrible experience. What can you do to protect your wool from moths? This article will tell you what you should know about those insects to protect woolen items and yarns.
Let me add that my recent shopping adventure inspired today’s article.
I swear by wool for every season. We are hiking a lot and usually wear wool for the occasion. Yes, also in summer. Of course, I’m not knitting everything! Even my love for knitwear has limits. It is usually around 22 degrees. Celsius.
I ordered a woolen t-shirt online and happily expected delivery. Without further ado, I got the thing. With bonus openings in the fabric, I did not expect:
Some moths had a feast on it, it seems. Packaging it back was much quicker than unboxing. When you see some tracks of those damn insects, it is best to get rid of the piece as there may be some eggs in it.
But if you, for some reason, cannot throw the item away, there are some things you can do to protect your household and treasures:
- Freezing. Please put the item into the plastic bag and put it in the freezer for a couple of days.
- High temperatures. You may put the yarn/sweater into the water and heat it to around 60 degrees. Now be very careful with that as you may felt the item.
You should know that visits from moths are not proof that you are not cleaning efficiently! It is the same as with the food moths. They may come from your neighbors or, as in my case – may be delivered with some purchase
It is better to avoid infestation if possible. It is easier said than done, though.
How can you avoid moths and protect wool?
There are many methods to prevent unwanted visitors and protect wool from moths. Let’s look into them.
- Toss your stash and clothes from time to time. Moths don’t like a light!
- Vacuum regularly. Dark and hidden places under furniture are the perfect location for moths to hide. You will remove any eggs before they hatch.
- Clean your clothes – either wash or air. Moths are more attracted to soiled and dirty garments than to clean ones.
- You may decide to use an insecticide. There are many chemicals available on the market, have a look if there is anything that suits you. Check the label carefully, though. The substances can impact your pet or even your health.
- Cedarwood has some moth repelling properties. You may look into that if you want more natural measures.
- One of the commonly used natural moth repellents is lavender. Those insects don’t like the smell. I am not sure I believe it to be true.
- Consider buying parasitic wasps. They are almost not visible to the human eye, and they are laying eggs inside moth eggs. The cycle will repeat as long as there are moth eggs available. Those wasps are not dangerous to humans or pets, so that it may be worth a try.
