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Are moths munching your wardrobe? Here's how to keep your clothes safe this autumn

Practical tips for stopping autumn’s tiniest home invaders in their tracks

If summer’s giant moth invasion across Spain surprised you, don’t let autumn’s smaller but just as hungry offenders ruin your favourite jumper. Clothes moths love to tuck themselves away in dark, warm spots like closets, drawers, attics and basement, making your woollies prime targets as the weather cools.

Why do moths go for your clothes? The adults themselves are harmless, but it’s their larvae that do the damage, feeding on natural fibres like wool, cotton, and silk. These sneaky insects lay eggs in poorly ventilated areas, and before you know it, you’ve got holes in your favourite sweater and mysterious lint on your outfits.

Spotting moths before damage sets in

The first clue is often small, irregular holes in stored clothes or soft furnishings. Check seams and corners for whitish larvae, and look out for fine dust or lint left from their feasting. Warm homes in autumn are perfect for several generations in a year, so vigilance pays off.

Keeping moths away

Prevention is your best ally:

Air out clothes monthly and vacuum wardrobes and drawers.
Clean corners with vinegar or mild soap to remove eggs.
Wash or dry clean before storage - perfume or food residue attracts moths.
Use breathable covers rather than plastic bags, as stale air encourages moisture and moth larvae.
Natural repellents like lavender, cedar, or clove sachets can be tucked into drawers for extra protection.

If you spot an infestation

Don’t panic! Start by emptying your wardrobe and washing or even freezing affected clothes for up to three days to kill eggs and larvae. Give interiors a thorough clean and check everything, not just visibly damaged items. For persistent cases, pheromone traps can help keep tabs on adult moths and prevent new outbreaks.

With a little regular attention and some natural tricks, your favourite clothes should stay safe from autumn’s hungry guests. Getting ahead of the problem not only protects your wardrobe - it also means you’ll dodge the drama of discovering “holy” jumpers just when you need them most.

You might also be interested in: The Geranium moth in Southern Spain

Image: leks/Pixabay and Chatgpt

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