Moths come in all shapes and sizes, and while some of them are stunning additions to our gardens, others are annoying pests that love nothing more than munching holes into our favourite clothes.
The common clothes moth is most active and noticeable between April and September, as they are attracted to warmer temperatures and humid conditions, which accelerate their life cycle. You often find them in your wardrobe because females seek out dark, quiet spaces to lay their eggs.
It doesn’t take long for a couple of moths to turn into an infestation, and beyond the holes they make in your clothes, they can be incredibly stressful to deal with on their own – especially if you’re not a fan of bugs.
But there is a way to prevent moths from wriggling inside your wardrobe. According to cleaning expert Chantel Mila, putting just one herb next to your clothes can keep them at bay.
Chantel shared her hack in a TikTok video detailing multiple ways to keep a variety of pests out of your home, and said you need just one item to get rid of moths – bay leaves.
Chantel claimed that adding a couple of bay leaves to a mesh bag and hanging the bag in your wardrobe can keep moths away, as they hate the smell and will be repelled.
And bay leaves don’t just keep moths away. Chantel claimed you can also use them in your pantry or cupboards to keep insects away from your food, and they can even be boiled into a homemade insect-repelling spray.
She said: “Boil bay leaves and cloves to make your home smell amazing. You can bottle up this mixture and use it as an insect repellent.”
Chantel’s final tip was to add a few drops of peppermint oil to baking soda and sprinkle the mixture in the bottom of your bin before you put the bag inside. This will help keep ants and flies away as they hate the smell of the oil.
How to repel moths from your home
1. Prevention
- Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps around windows, doors, vents, and screens. Seal any cracks or holes where moths could enter.
- Use Screens: Ensure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens.
- Outdoor Lights: Use yellow “bug” bulbs outdoors, as regular lights attract moths.
2. Clothing & Pantry Moths
- Store Food Properly: Keep grains, flour, and cereals in airtight containers.
- Clean Pantry Regularly: Wipe shelves and dispose of infested food.
- Store Clothes Properly: Use airtight bins or garment bags for wool, silk, and other natural fibers.
- Launder Before Storing: Wash or dry-clean clothes before storing for long periods.
3. Cleaning
- Vacuum Regularly: Pay attention to closets, under furniture, and along baseboards.
- Wipe Surfaces: Clean pantry shelves and closet surfaces with soap and water.
4. Natural Deterrents
- Cedar: Place cedar blocks, chips, or sachets in closets and drawers.
- Herbs: Sachets of lavender, bay leaves, or cloves can repel moths.
- Essential Oils: Use lavender or cedarwood oil on cotton balls in closets.