Only store clothing, linens, and fabric that has been cleaned.
Best cleaning options:
1) Wash & dry. This is best as it is the surest way to thoroughly remove all kinds of debris--from food to insect.
2) Freeze. For delicate clothing that cannot be washed, trying freezing clothing for 48 hrs. This will kill anything (like moth eggs) that might have been put on clothing.
3) Brush Off (outside). Great option for overcoats before washing. Good for sweaters, rugs, and other large items.
Step 2: Clean the storage area.
Make sure the storage area is cleaned, dusted, and ready for clean clothes to go in!
Thoroughly cleaning storage areas once a year (at least) helps get rid of any pests who might have snuck in. Regularly vacuum closets, too, to catch any eggs that might have snuck in.
Step 3: Use enough cedar, and refresh it as needed.
Cedar works through its aromatic oils. This means there should be enough cedar to smell. For best results, place cedar in and around clothing. Wrap delicate fabrics and wool in cotton, too.
As cedar is used, the scent dissipates and will need to be refreshed. Sand wood or Spritz wood with Cedar Spray to amp up scent.
Step 4: Seal.
Cedar works best in sealed or mostly sealed environments. Think of a cedar chest.
So use cedar in areas that are kept closed most often--like drawers and cupboards. The more often a door is opened, the more often cedar will need to be refreshed.
Boxes, Bins, and Bags
Closet Storage
Drawer Storage
Which cedar products work best?
Balls, blocks, & cubes; Sachets
Hangers, hang-ups, blocks & cubes
Sachets, balls, and blocks
How often do I need to refresh?
6 months - 1 year; 6 months - 1 year; time varies with humidity and exposure to open air
Annually; time varies with humidity and exposure to open air
6 months - 1 year; time varies with humidity and exposure to open air
FAQ:
Does Cedar Get Rid Of Moths? Yes and no. It kills moth larvae and deters adults, but it does NOT kill adult moths already there. It prevents more moths from growing up
How Does Cedar Work? Bugs and clothing moths dislike the oil naturally found in easter red cedar. Because of that, it works to keep them away from things like clothing. Cedar also absorbs odor and moisture, 2 other challenges in clothing storage
How Do I Make The Scent Stronger? Sand cedar lightly with sand paper. Or, use Cedar Power Spray, but be sure to let it dry all the way before putting cedar with clothing