The appearance of moths in the closet often becomes an unpleasant surprise when holes are found on your favorite sweater. Many people mistakenly believe that pests only grow in old things, but moth larvae They are no less willing to spoil new wool, fur and natural silk. To save your wardrobe, you need to act quickly and comprehensively, eliminating not only adults, but also their offspring.
General cleaning and revision
The first step in the fight against insects is to completely empty the shelves. It is necessary to get absolutely all things in order to assess the scale of the problem. The butterflies themselves can be destroyed mechanically, but the main enemy is eggs and caterpillarsthat hide in the seams of clothes and the far corners of the closet.
The shelves should be thoroughly vacuumed, paying attention to joints and crevices, and then wiped with a damp cloth with added laundry soap or vinegar. The sharp smell of an acidic environment repels pests and disinfects surfaces.
Temperature treatment of things
Moths cannot tolerate extreme temperatures. Clothes that can be washed should be run through the machine at a temperature of at least 60 degrees. This is guaranteed to destroy pests at any stage of development.
Suitable for delicate fabrics, furs and sweaters that are afraid of hot water. freezing. Simply pack your items in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer for 24 hours. In winter, you can take your clothes out onto the balcony if the temperature outside drops below zero. Alternative option – processing steam generatorwhich is also detrimental to the larvae.
Natural repellents
After the closet is washed and things are treated, it is important to create conditions that are unsuitable for the reappearance of insects. Chemical sprays are effective but can leave an unpleasant odor. Natural remedies work more gently and are safer for health.
-
Lavender. Sachets with dried flowers or cotton pads soaked in essential oil are excellent at repelling moths.
-
Cedar. Cedar wood contains resins, the aroma of which is unbearable for insects. You can use special hangers or cedar balls.
-
Citrus peels. Dried orange or lemon peels are laid out on shelves and changed once a month as long as they retain the smell.
Proper storage
To avoid relapse, seasonal items should be kept clean. Moths are attracted by the smell of sweat and particles of epidermis remaining on the fabric after wear. Before storing winter jackets or wool blankets for long-term storage, they must be washed or dry cleaned.
Usage vacuum bags and dense covers creates a physical barrier for pests. In sealed packaging, insects will not be able to reach the fabric, even if they accidentally end up in the closet. Regular ventilation of the wardrobe and access to fresh air also serve as excellent prevention.
Cleanliness, proper packaging and the use of aromatic products will reliably protect your clothes from damage.
