how do you store clothes without mothballs

How do you store clothes without mothballs?

• Cedar Chips. Use cedar chips as a useful alternative for protecting fabrics in your closet from moths. Hang cedar blocks...
• Airtight Containers or Garment Bags. Seal up clothes in containers as a preventive measure and to free up space in the...

Full Answer

Is it safe to store clothes in mothballs?

The traditional method of mothproofing winter wear in storage is on the outs. Experts say mothballs may pose a health risk. They contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are pesticides whose fumes can irritate eyes and skin and can even affect the nervous system and liver.

How do you store clothes without damaging them?

Always use any chemicals according to label instructions, and store them carefully. For items that are suitable to hang for storage, such as a coat, use all of the hanging loops to keep the clothing from becoming misshapen. Also, wrap the clothing in something breathable (e.g., a fabric garment bag).

How do I get rid of moths in my clothes?

Once clean, keep your prized items in sealed plastic storage bags. If you spot evidence of a moth infestation in your closet, wash and dry the clothes. It will eliminate the issue—but only for clothing that goes through a dryer cycle. (If it has to hang or lay flat to try, consider taking it to a dry cleaner.)

How to store seasonal clothes?

Follow these tips for storing seasonal clothing. A little effort when you pack the clothing can make a big difference when it comes time to unpack for a new season. Just prior to packing your seasonal clothing for the off-season is the best time to thoroughly clean the clothes.

What is a natural alternative to mothballs?

Cloves, Rosemary and Thyme You've probably figured out by now that many spices in your kitchen pantry are effective mothball alternatives. These include cloves, rosemary and thyme. Mix these herbs together to create wonderful smelling sachet bags for your closet and storage items.

Do you need moth balls for storage?

Mothballs must be used in an airtight space, such as a garment bag or well-sealed container, never in an open closet or plastic garbage bag, according to the authors. "Once vapors enter the home, their odor can be detected at a few parts per billion in the air," Stone said.

How do I get rid of clothes moths without mothballs?

Mothball Alternatives: Getting Rid of Moths Without MothballsAlways Wash Your Clothes Before Storing. ... Use Airtight Storage Containers. ... Non-Toxic Moth Traps. ... Cedar Balls or Blocks. ... Lavender. ... Sachet of Cloves, Rosemary, and Thyme. ... Homemade Moth Repellent Spray. ... Which Natural Alternative To Mothballs Is Right For You?

How do you keep clothes free from moths?

Here are 5 things you can do to keep these winged pests away:Wash garments thoroughly before you put them away. Clothes moths are attracted to perspiration and food stains.Keep your wardrobe well ventilated. ... Store away clothes carefully. ... Use a natural moth repellent. ... Spritz carpets with lavender.

What else can I use instead of mothballs?

Here's how to get rid of moths naturally without using mothballs.Always Wash First. Image via Bigstock. ... Cedar Chips. Cedar chips are a natural moth deterrent and a useful alternative for protecting your closet's contents from insects. ... Lavender. ... Cloves. ... Airtight Containers. ... DIY Moth Repellant Spray. ... Clean Up After Pets.

How do you store clothes?

Below are the 9 most important tips for how to store clothes in a storage unit.Wash Everything. ... Donate or Sell Unwanted Items. ... Use Plastic Bins. ... Create an Inventory System. ... Never Vacuum Pack. ... Keep Bugs Out. ... Store in a Dry, Dark, & Cool Place. ... Use a Wardrobe Box.More items...•

Do dryer sheets repel moths?

Tumble dryer sheets Floral fragrances are a great moth repellent.

Does vinegar get rid of moths?

Vinegar: Vinegar really can be used for anything. And when it comes to cleaning out your closet or storage box to repel moths, it does the job. The strong acidic smell of vinegar will repel moths away from the area as well as cleanse the area from dirt, dust, moth eggs and larvae.

Are there odorless mothballs?

HERE`S A MOTHBALL THAT DOESN`T SMELL-AND LASTS INDEFINITELY Roy Bry has built a better mothball-an odorless, colorless compound that protects woolen sweaters, suits and trousers from hungry moths almost indefinitely.

How do I protect my clothes from moths in the winter?

Store clothing in airtight containers. You can also line these spaces with anti-moth paper, cedar, or even mothballs to make them extra secure. Most if not all of these items should be available from Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, or Walmart.

Can clothes moths eat through plastic?

Moths will eat through a plastic grocery in short order, and the heavy plastic zippered bags many of us favour don't breathe and traps moisture with the wool, and moths like moisture and the dark.

How long does a clothes moth live?

The lifecycle lasts for about 65-90 days, with the female adult moths living for about 30 days and potentially laying up to 300 eggs. The larvae that hatch from the eggs do the damage, as the adult moths themselves, known as 'millers', pose no threat to your knitwear.

How to keep moths out of clothing?

As a preventive measure, you can seal up your clothes and seasonal bedding in airtight plastic containers. Containers and large zip-up garment bags create another layer of protection for your clothing and provide a barrier to seal insects out. Again, just remember to wash your outfits before you seal them up, and wipe out all your containers to remove any existing moth eggs. Store your chemical-free and naturally mot h-safe containers in a self-storage unit to free up space in the closet.

How to get rid of moths in clothes?

Make your own natural, moth-repelling sachet with a sheer, stiff fabric, such as organza, or wrap whole cloves in tissue paper and hang them in your closet. Cloves are one more natural alternative to mothballs, minus the harsh chemicals and irritating smell.

How to get rid of moths without mothballs?

Here’s how to get rid of moths naturally without using mothballs. 1. Always Wash First. Image via Bigstock. Before you pack up your clothes to put in storage units, make sure they are laundered thoroughly and — almost more importantly — dried completely.

How to get rid of moths in fabric?

Fill it with water, then add a few drops of liquid soap. Shake well, and spray your solution directly on the moths. Another simple solution is to mix white vinegar with equal amounts of water to create a pesticide spray that is effective against moths. Just be careful spraying your repellent on certain types of fabric, such as silk, suede, ...

What to use instead of mothballs?

Another natural alternative to mothballs is the herb lavender. Lavender repels insects naturally, and most moths tend to avoid its scent. Another advantage of using lavender is that it has a clean and pleasant smell. Used in aromatherapy, lavender is said to help relieve stress and anxiety. Simply add a few cloth satchels filled with dried lavender throughout your closet, and then enjoy the fragrant aroma. You can also use lavender’s oil extraction by dabbing a few drops on a cotton ball or a linen cloth. Hang the oil-infused items near your clothes, but not touching them, because the lavender oil can stain.

How to protect cardigans from moths?

Bottom line: There are safer ways to protect your cardigans. Store clothes safely and effectively with these four tips: 1. Clean before storing . Food and sweat stains are magnets for moths. Launder washables with detergent or dry-clean them.

How to kill moth larvae?

To kill larvae, which munch mostly on natural fibers, use hot water or dry on Low. Dry-cleaning also kills larvae. 2. Seal in airtight containers. This keeps out moths and moisture, which can lead to mold. A good bet: vacuum-sealed storage bags. 3.

Is mothproofing winter clothes safe?

There are safer (and less unhealthy!) ways to protect your clothes. The traditional method of mothproofing winter wear in storage is on the outs. Experts say mothballs may pose a health risk. They contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are pesticides whose fumes can irritate eyes and skin and can even affect ...

Is mothball a carcinogen?

Experts say mothballs may pose a health risk. They contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are pesticides whose fumes can irritate eyes and skin and can even affect the nervous system and liver. California considers them known carcinogens, and naphthalene is banned in the European Union. Bottom line: There are safer ways ...

How to store clothes?

1. Wash Everything . Before you even begin to pack, you must make sure to wash all the clothing you want to store. This is crucial to maintaining the longevity of all the clothes you are storing. Unwashed clothing can produce, mold, mildew, and begin to smell if left long term.

What is the best way to store clothes?

Many people use cardboard boxes or plastic bags to store clothes, as these are more cost-effective options, but these methods leave your clothing vulnerable to damage. Plastic bags can trap moisture and will lead to mold and mildew.

Why do clothes turn yellow?

Residual perfumes, lotions, oil, or even sweat can sit in the fabric and turn your clothing yellow. Food stains or clothes that have been starched can attract pests, which will ruin your clothing. 2. Donate or Sell Unwanted Items.

Why are cardboard boxes so vulnerable to moisture?

Cardboard boxes are also vulnerable to humidity and water damage. Instead, invest in plastic bins that snap shut to keep your clothing safe from all threats.

Do mothballs smell bad?

Let’s be honest, mothballs smell awful. Luckily, they aren’t your only option when storing your clothing. Instead, throw some cedar chips in with your clothes to deter pests. They work just as well as mothballs, but without pesticides that can be harmful to your clothing.

Can light cause fading in clothing?

If the environment is bright, the light can cause fading in your fabrics. Many people choose to store their clothing in attics or garages, but these areas are susceptible to extreme temperature changes, which can damage clothing. Your best option will be a climate-controlled storage unit.

Is vacuum packing bad for clothes?

Vacuum packing may save a lot of space, but it’s also very damaging to your clothing. Packing clothing this way long term can lead to permanent creasing and wrinkles. Natural fibers need to breathe, and by sucking all the air out of them, you are quickening the process of deterioration to your clothing.

How to deter bugs from wearing clothes?

A healthier option to deter insects is packing clothes with cedar blocks or in a cedar-lined container, though remember that no deterrent is a guarantee you won't have bug problems. Always use any chemicals according to label instructions, and store them carefully.

How to keep clothes from creasing?

And make sure the clothing has enough room for air circulation. This will lower the risk of mildew and mold, as well as prevent the clothing from creasing during storage. Storing clothes in plastic bags is not recommended, as the bags don't breathe enough.

When is the best time to clean clothes?

Just prior to packing your seasonal clothing for the off-season is the best time to thoroughly clean the clothes. Any stains left on the clothing will only darken and become worse in storage. Clean clothes are also less likely to attract insects in storage.

Can cardboard boxes attract bugs?

Even then be aware that cardboard boxes can attract bugs. And if there is any moisture trapped in a plastic container it can cause mold and mildew on your clothes. One of the best storage containers is an empty suitcase that has been thoroughly cleaned.

How to store non-delicate clothing?

Place your non-delicate items into plastic bins. Plastic containers are ideal for seasonal storage of your non-delicate clothing. Fold and place the heaviest items, like jeans and sweatshirts, in the bottom of the plastic bin. Place neatly folded shirts, skirts, and tights on top of the bulky bottom layer.

How to store winter clothes?

To store winter clothes, fold non-delicate items like jeans, sweatshirts, sweaters, and winter coats and place them loosely in a plastic bin or cotton storage bag. Wrap more delicate items in acid-free tissue paper before placing them into a cotton bag so they can breathe.

How to store boots in closet?

If you don’t have space in a closet, you may store your boots in a plastic bin. Lay a pair of boots on their side in the bin. Place a cotton t-shirt of muslin shoe bag over the boots. Continue to fill the bin with alternating layers of boots and cotton t-shirts/muslin shoe bags.

How to keep tall boots from losing shape?

Fill your tall winter boots with boot trees and store. When tall boots are shoved in the back of a closet or haphazardly thrown into a box, they tend to lose their shape. To prevent this from occurring, insert a boot form or tree into each boot. Once your boots are thoroughly cleaned, polished, and conditioned, stand them up in a closet side-by-side.

Why is it important to store furs in a cool place?

It is especially important to store your furs in a cool place—the skins will crack if they are too hot. Bright environments will cause your clothing to fade. Damp and hot environments may cause your clothing to become mildewy. Dusty storage spaces will cause your clean clothing to become dirty.

How to keep winter shoes in shape?

To help your winter shoes keep their shape, fill each shoe with loosely packed tissue paper. Once filled, carefully stack the shoes in a storage container, such as a plastic bin or basket, your closet, or a designated shoe organizer. Use new tissue paper.

What causes yellowing in clothes?

When stored for long periods of time, dirty clothing attracts pests and can also produce unwanted odors, mold, or mildew. Unclean items that contain perfumes, lotions, oils, and/or perspiration can also cause fabric to stain and yellow.

How to store clothes?

Let’s start with the basics. What is the best way to store clothes? The actual act of storing clothes isn’t terribly complicated. Here are some guidelines: 1 Clean garments according to label instructions before putting them in storage. 2 Choose a place that’s cool, dry, and dark for storing clothes. 3 Optionally, make a list of every garment you are storing. That way, you can check the list before you buy new clothes. 4 Pack your clothes lightly into a container with a lid. I’ve used plastic bins with lids for seasonal storage, though you could acid-free wardrobe boxes if you are storing really expensive pieces. Alternatively, you could use a cardboard box, but take the extra step of wrapping the clothes in acid-free tissue or a cotton sheet. Avoid vacuum bags because they’re airtight and your garments need some air circulation. Without it, stains and smells worsen and clothes made of natural fibers can lose their shape. 5 Sandals and flipflops don’t too much special treatment; just arrange them neatly so any embellishments don’t fall up. In the spring, you’ll want to lace up your winter shoes and stuff them with tissue paper to retain their shape. You can use boot trees for boots, of course. Organize them neatly into a plastic container with a lid. 6 Know that fur coats, wedding dresses, and leather garments require special care. Try these resources for specifics: how to store a fur coat, how to store a wedding dress, and how to store your leather jacket.

How to keep clothes from yellowing in storage?

Keep clothes from yellowing in storage by: Wash them before packing, even if you think they’re already clean. Make sure garments are 100% dry before you pack them. Wash your hands with soap before handling your newly washed clothes. Lotions on your hands can stain stored clothes.

How long do wedding dresses last boxed?

Think about wedding dresses — when you have them professionally boxed, they’ll hold up for decades. For clothes that aren’t professionally boxed, make a plan to check in on their condition once a year. That’ll help you spot issues that aren’t obvious, such as damp conditions or a bug infestation.

How to keep winter shoes shape?

In the spring, you’ll want to lace up your winter shoes and stuff them with tissue paper to retain their shape. You can use boot trees for boots, of course. Organize them neatly into a plastic container with a lid. Know that fur coats, wedding dresses, and leather garments require special care.

Can you use moth balls on cashmere?

Moths like animal fibers, like wool, silk, and cashmere. So you can use mothballs with your cashmere sweaters and silk scarves, but you do not need mothballs for garments made of synthetic materials. Cedar balls on Amazon.

Can you store clothes in acid free cardboard?

And too much artificial light or sunlight will cause discoloration. And two, you can store your clothes in acid-free garment boxes. Acid in regular cardboard boxes can lead to staining.

Can you get moldy clothes out of storage?

Yes, clothes can get moldy in storage. You’ll probably smell the issue before you see it, but mold can cause staining, too. If you pull your clothes out of storage and see or smell mold, try washing them with oxygen bleach and detergent.

How to get rid of insects in clothes?

Wash and dry any clothing that's ready for storage, including clothing that you may not regularly wash. If appropriate, take clothing out to a dry cleaner for a full cleaning instead. First, this helps get rid of dirt and food bits that may be attractive to insects. Second, it gets rid of oils and stains that can "set" over ...

How to protect your shoes from dirt?

If you want to give shoes and boots maximum protection, they may need a little extra work. Brush your shoes down (or wash them) to remove all dirt. Add a pinch of baking soda inside to help take care of odors. For more delicate shoes and boots, use a shoe tree so they will keep their proper shape.

Can moths get into clothes?

If you are really worried about moths getting into your clothing, then focus on prevention. Don't store your clothes in an area that moths have access to. If your attic or storage area needs to be better sealed or screened for protection, now is a great time for that project.

Can you store clothes in cardboard?

If you have a suitably temperate attic to store clothes in, select your storage bins carefully. Never store clothes in cardboard for long periods of time— cardboard can damage delicate fabrics, and it's a big draw for any pests that might be around. Instead, find a set of clear plastic bins to use instead.