How to protect wool from moths | Non-toxic

Wool is the fabric clothing moths love most. It is pure keratin, the protein their larvae feed on, and a wardrobe of sweaters, coats and blankets is a feast waiting to happen. The good news: protecting wool is mostly about denying moths the quiet, soiled, undisturbed conditions they need. A little routine care keeps your wool safe, no mothballs required.

Why moths target wool

Clothing moth larvae eat keratin, and wool is dense with it. They are drawn most to wool that has been worn and put away unwashed, since sweat, skin oils and food traces make it easier to digest and more appealing. The secretive adults slip into dark, still closets to lay eggs, and the larvae do the damage out of sight, in folds, cuffs and the backs of stacked knits. That is why the sweater you wore once and stored often takes the worst of it. (More on the how and why: How to get rid of clothing moths and Carpet beetles vs clothes moths.)

How to protect your wool the non-toxic way

Start clean: launder or air out wool before it goes away for the season, since moths key in on body oils and stains. Store it in a breathable garment bag or box rather than airtight plastic, since natural fibers need to breathe and trapped moisture invites mildew. Set out Cedar Planks and a Cedar Chips canister near the wool but not touching it, to repel moths naturally, refreshing the wood with Cedar Ward when the scent fades. Keep a Clothing Moth Trap in the closet year round; the pheromone lure catches the males and warns you early if moths are active. For any piece you are unsure about, seal it in a bag and freeze it at 0°F for about two weeks, which kills eggs and larvae without chemicals. If you already find holes or webbing, treat that piece with a hot wash, a hot dryer cycle or dry cleaning before it goes back.

Protect your wool

• Store it clean: launder or air wool before storage, since moths target sweat and food traces.
• Let it breathe: store in a breathable garment bag or box, not airtight plastic, with Cedar Planks and Cedar Chips set nearby, refreshed by Cedar Ward.
• Monitor: keep a Clothing Moth Trap up year round to catch males and catch problems early.
• Treat the doubtful: freeze suspect items at 0°F for about two weeks, or hot-wash or dry-clean anything with damage.

Related: How to protect cashmere from moths and How to stop moths from eating your silk clothing.

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