Everyone wants their stored clothes, blankets, sheets, and towels to smell as fresh as they did after they were laundered. However, the smell will be the least of your concerns when insects and other pests invade your closet.
Various kinds of insects consuming and ruining your clothing are the last thing you’ll ever want to happen to your closet. Consequently, you’ll need to find several alternative solutions to remedy this infestation problem immediately.
That said, we’ll take a closer look at the essential information about using mothballs and lavender for your closet.
What Are Mothballs ?
Mothballs are categorized as pesticides and are used to eliminate fiber pests, such as moths and silverfish. But it should only be used as directed on the label, and its usage is regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Mothballs: Advantages and Disadvantages
The effectiveness of mothballs in preventing moths and insects from infesting clothing has been demonstrated over the years. However, mothballs contain hazardous substances such as 1.4-dichlorobenzene and naphthalene, which are toxic to humans and animals. As the fumes can spread and endanger you, your family, and your pets, it is essential to store mothballs in an airtight container. Lastly, it takes time to eliminate the foul odor it leaves on your clothing and your closet.
How To Remove the Smell From Your Clothes
For Machine-washed Clothes
- Place the clothes in the washer.
- Mix up one cup of baking soda and the necessary amount of detergent.
- Allow the garments to soak in the solution for one hour before beginning the washing cycle.
- Pour a cup of white vinegar into the last rinse. This will help eradicate odors and preserve the freshness of the garments.
- Hang the garments to dry. The fresh air may aid in restoring the fresh scent of your stored garments.
What Is Lavender ?
Lavender is not only an aromatic herb. They are also excellent alternatives to mothballs since they are a natural moth repellent. Interestingly, this herb is also frequently utilized for medicinal and therapeutic purposes.
Lavender: Advantages and Disadvantages
Based on an article at kellysdrycleaners.com, dried lavender is a natural alternative to chemical insect repellents. The scent and use of lavender are soothing and safe for sensitive skin. If you store your clothes with lavender in a dry, cool place, you won’t have to worry about any bugs ruining them while they’re in storage, and you can pull them out whenever you need them.
You can either buy dried lavender or dry some fresh lavender for yourself. To avoid the possibility of discoloration, use sachets or a potpourri ball to contain the dried lavender. Afterward, you can hang the ball or sachet in your wardrobe or put it in your drawers.
The only downside of using lavender in your closet is that it fades over time and loses its potency, so you’ll have to replace it on time. Keep in mind that forgetting to replace it might risk your clothes being infested again by these fiber pests.
How To Use Lavender for Your Closet
- You can dry the lavender at home or buy dried ones.
- Divide the lavender into individual sachets to prevent clothing from becoming discolored.
- Replace it regularly, as lavender’s aroma decreases with time.
- You can refresh wilted lavenders with essential oils. Squeeze a single drop of the essential oil and allow it to combine with the lavender.
- Incorporate a fixative, such as an orris root or calamus. It will facilitate the oil’s attachment to the lavender.
- Allow the mixture to age for 14 days in a cool, dark location. Shake it weekly to combine the ingredients.
- Finally, place them in sachet bags and put them in every storage space for clothing.
Natural Alternatives To Get Rid of Fiber Pests
Mint
Insects and rodents have a strong aversion to the scent of mint. Keep them at bay with peppermint oil on a cotton ball or sachets filled with dried mint.
Cedar
Cedar has a refreshing fragrance, making it ideal for use in cedar blocks and chips. It does an excellent job of warding off pests in the closet. Replace it regularly to maintain a fresh scent.
Thyme, Rosemary, and Cloves
Spices such as thyme, rosemary, and cloves, are great mothball alternatives. Combine the three ingredients and package them individually.
Key Takeaway
After spending money on custom closets to help keep everything organized, the last thing you’d anticipate is cleaning them out because pests broke in. Insects and other pests are a major nuisance when storing clothing and other belongings in a closet. Fortunately, there are some options to get rid of these pesky pests. However, it would be best if you always consider the safety of your home when using these alternative solutions. Consider all the information mentioned above to know how to use these remedies safely and effectively.