How to stop moths from eating your silk clothing | Non-toxic

Silk is not a clothing moth's first choice, but it is still on the menu, especially when a blouse or scarf carries a little sweat or food. Silk is a protein fiber, and the larvae will feed on it and leave the same small holes and webbing they leave in wool. Protecting your silk comes down to keeping it clean, storing it well and giving moths no reason to settle in.

Why moths go after silk

Clothing moth larvae feed on the proteins in animal fibers, and silk qualifies. They are far more likely to attack a silk piece that has been worn and stored without cleaning, since body oils and stains make the fibers easier to digest. The adults tuck into dark, quiet closets to lay eggs, and because silk is thin, damage can show up fast once the larvae start feeding. (More on the how and why: How to get rid of clothing moths and Are clothing moth issues on the rise.)

How to protect your silk the non-toxic way

Clean silk before storing it, by dry cleaning or a gentle wash suited to the piece, so no oils or food traces are left to attract moths. Store it in a breathable garment bag rather than sealed plastic, since silk needs air. Keep Cedar Planks or a Cedar Chips canister nearby to repel moths, refreshed with Cedar Ward as the scent fades. Hang a Clothing Moth Trap in the closet to catch the males and give early warning. Keep sprays off your silk; if you think a piece has eggs or larvae, seal it in a bag and freeze it at 0°F for about two weeks to kill them without touching the fabric.

Stop moths eating your silk

• Store it clean: dry clean or gently wash silk before putting it away.
• Let it breathe: use a breathable garment bag, not sealed plastic, with cedar nearby.
• Monitor: keep a Clothing Moth Trap in the closet to catch males and flag activity.
• Treat gently: never spray silk; freeze a suspect piece at 0°F for about two weeks instead.

Related: How to protect wool from moths and How to protect cashmere from moths.

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