What you should know about clothes and moths

Short answer: Moth larvae eat protein fibres such as wool and silk. Bamboo viscose and cotton are cellulose and are mainly attacked if there is food residue or sweat in the fabric.

The larvae eat protein

Wool and silk are what is actually at risk from moths, because the larvae live off the proteins those fibres are made of. Pure cellulose fibres such as bamboo viscose and cotton are not the moth's natural food, and are therefore attacked less often than many people assume. See our washing and care guide.

Sweat and food residue attract them

If there is sweat, skin oil or food residue in the fabric, moths can still attack even cellulose fibres, because the larvae are then drawn to the residue rather than the fabric itself. That is why everything needs a thorough wash before it gets packed away for storage. See bamboo underwear for men.

Clean boxes

Store clothes in clean, dry boxes or bags, and avoid reusing a box that previously held infested clothing without cleaning it first. Moths can survive in cracks and corners long after the clothing itself has been removed. See bamboo bedding.

Look for the signs

Small holes and a fine, sandy residue around them are signs of an active infestation, which should not be ignored even if it looks limited. Wash everything nearby at the highest temperature the fabric can handle as soon as you spot the signs.

Freezing works too

If an item is too delicate for a hot wash, a couple of days in the freezer can kill the larvae without damaging the fabric. Put the clothing in a bag first, and let it thaw completely before wearing or washing it. See bamboo T-shirts for men.

Moths can spread

An infestation in one garment can spread to nearby textiles in the same box or wardrobe if it is not caught in time. Always check the whole box, not just the item where you first spotted signs of damage.

Wool needs extra attention

If you keep wool jumpers or blankets in the same storage space, they deserve extra attention, since they are the most attractive food for the larvae. Consider storing wool separately from cellulose fibres such as bamboo viscose, if that is an option for you.

Lavender and cedar as prevention

The scent of lavender or cedar discourages adult moths from laying eggs nearby, even though it does not kill larvae that are already present. Place a sachet or a few balls in the box as an extra layer of protection.

Air the clothes regularly

Moths prefer dark, still places, so airing the clothes regularly and moving them slightly makes the surroundings less attractive to both adult moths and eggs. It only takes a few minutes now and then throughout the season.