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Clothes can be damaged in the wardrobe as well as in the wash. Storing them clean, dry and checked helps them last. This guide uses English Heritage’s advice on preventing clothes moths, which is written for historic collections but applies at home.
Store clothes clean
English Heritage advises storing only clean items. Food or urine stains attract pests, and stained areas are often damaged more. Before you pack anything away, check crevices and folds, such as collar folds, armpits, behind lapels, pockets and trouser turn-ups.
Use closed storage for things you rarely wear
- Keep infrequently used items in boxes with tight-sealing lids.
- Vacuum-sealed bags protect against pests, damp and dust and save space. English Heritage suggests them for bulky items such as duvets, blankets and feather pillows.
- Discard or recycle unused wool, cotton, fur and feather items rather than leaving them forgotten at the back of a wardrobe.
Disturb and check things regularly
Moths dislike being disturbed. English Heritage advises shaking out hanging clothes at least monthly, and doing the same for items in drawers or trunks. That also lets you spot damage early.
Keep wardrobes and floors clean
- Vacuum the bottoms and shelves of wardrobes regularly, using a crevice tool on the edges.
- Vacuum wool carpets often. English Heritage describes this as the most effective preventive measure.
- Once a month, move large furniture and vacuum underneath.
- Remove carpet pieces lining wardrobe bottoms and airing cupboards.
- Empty the vacuum outdoors into a sealed bag and put it in an outside bin. Do not store a dirty vacuum, as it can spread larvae.
The same tips apply to carpet beetles.
Wool and knitwear
Wool is a favourite target, so it deserves the most checking. If you own merino or other wool, my organic cotton guide covers fibres in general, and the washing guide explains how to wash them gently. Clean wool before putting it away for the season.
If you find damage
English Heritage’s page refers to separate freezing guidelines for treating infested items, which I did not read, so I cannot give temperatures or timings. If you find holes or larvae, search for English Heritage’s freezing guidance or ask a pest-control professional. For items beyond saving, see how to donate or recycle old clothes and basic repair.
What I could not verify
- Freezing or heat treatment details, which the page defers to another document.
- Whether folding or hanging is better for particular garments. I found no reliable source, so I make no claim.
- Effectiveness of cedar, lavender or sprays, which the English Heritage page does not cover.
Source
This article is general information, not professional advice. I have not tested any products. Figures are quoted from the sources above and may have changed.