Watch out for moths!
If you’ve noticed a hole in your lambswool sweater, scarf, cushion or creature, the chances are it’s been attacked by a moth. Clothes moths are the number one enemy of wool. Moths love natural fibres – they are particularly attracted to the natural oils in wool – and will lay their eggs on your woollen goodies. These eggs will hatch and the larvae will munch their way through your beloved sweaters, scarves and blankets.
These pesky clothes moths are drawn to dirty clothes, cushions and blankets, especially those with perspiration or food stains, so always wash your knits before storing them – particularly if you’re storing them for a long period of time. You can also store your clean knits in airtight boxes or vacuum bags.
You can use natural methods like cedarwood or lavender balls or sachets to keep moths at bay – just pop a couple into cupboards, drawers or even into a cushion cover – or stronger chemical sprays and papers that will kill moths, along with their larvae and eggs.
If you do spot any tell-tale moth nibbles in your woollen goods, seal the affected knits in plastic bags and place them in the freezer for a couple of weeks – this will kill any eggs or larvae – and thoroughly clean wardrobes, cupboards and drawers, and vacuum carpets.