7 Easy Hacks to Get Rid of Moths in Your Home (That Actually Work)

Every time I find a tiny hole in a favourite sweater, I feel that same mix of anger and panic. Closet moths are sneaky, and by the time you see one flying, the damage is usually done. I’ve dealt with this in my own home and with clients, and I know exactly how fast it can spiral.

Here’s the real problem: it’s not the adults—it’s the larvae chewing through wool, cashmere, silk and blends in dark, still corners. And no, pantry moth fixes won’t save your wardrobe. Clothes moths need a different plan.

In this guide, I’ll show you 7 proven ways that actually work long-term—quick wins like freezing or heat-washing, airtight storage that blocks re-infestation, natural repellents that don’t stink up your clothes, and a simple cleaning routine that cuts the problem at the root. No scare tactics, no mothball haze—just safe, practical steps.

If you came here searching “how to get rid of moths,” you’ll get a clear, step-by-step action plan plus a seasonal checklist so you stay moth-free—forever.

Before we start: what was your first warning sign—pinholes, webbing, or little casings on the closet floor? Tell me below, and I’ll point you to the step you should do first.

Spot the Signs Before It’s Too Late

The toughest part about moths? You usually don’t see them until your favourite clothes are already ruined. I learned this the hard way when I pulled out a wool coat one winter and found tiny holes scattered across the sleeves. By then, the larvae had been at work for weeks.

Small holes in sweaters, clumps of larvae, webbing

The first thing you’ll notice are small, irregular holes in natural fabrics like wool, cashmere, and silk. If you look closer, you might spot:

• Fine webbing tucked into seams or folded areas
• Rice-sized larvae clinging to fabric or wardrobe corners
• Little cocoons that almost look like lint but don’t brush off easily

These are clear red flags that moths have already set up shop.

Musty smell and hidden corners in dark wardrobes

Sometimes, even before you see the damage, your nose picks up a faint musty odour. Clothes moths thrive in dark, undisturbed spaces where air circulation is poor. Check:

• The back corners of your wardrobe or drawers
• Stored boxes of off-season clothes
• Rugs, carpets, or upholstered furniture near closets

If you notice this smell, act fast—moths don’t go away on their own. On Reddit, I once saw a user share how their entire storage box of sweaters was destroyed after just one summer in a spare room.

The 7 Proven Ways to Get Rid of Moths

Once you’ve spotted the signs, it’s time to go on offense. Here’s what actually works long term:

1. Deep-clean and vacuum wardrobes regularly

Start with a full reset. Remove everything from your closet, vacuum every corner (including baseboards and cracks), and wipe down shelves with a vinegar solution. Larvae hide in the tiniest places, so a lazy clean won’t cut it. Just like moths, roaches also thrive in hidden corners and dark spaces—if you want to tackle them naturally, check out these DIY methods for a roach-free home that don’t rely on chemicals.

• Use a nozzle attachment to reach crevices
• Empty the vacuum bag immediately outside your home

2. Freeze infected clothes for 72 hours

Moth eggs and larvae can’t survive extreme cold. Seal infested items in plastic bags and leave them in the freezer for at least three days. This works especially well for delicate fabrics you can’t wash on high heat.

3. Use natural repellents (cedar blocks, lavender sachets)

Cedar has oils that repel moths, and lavender is another safe option that adds a fresh scent. I keep cedar rings on my hangers and lavender sachets in drawers—it’s simple but surprisingly effective.

• Refresh cedar with a light sanding every season
• Replace lavender sachets every few months for best results

4. Seal garments in airtight storage bags

Think of this as moth-proof armour. For clothes you don’t wear often, like winter coats or cashmere, store them in vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers. This cuts off moths’ access completely.

5. Wash clothes at high heat or dry clean delicate fabrics

Heat is another guaranteed killer. Wash washable items at the hottest temperature the fabric can handle. For wool or silk, dry cleaning is a safe route—many professional cleaners even offer moth-proofing treatments.

6. Try pheromone traps for adult moths

These sticky traps lure in male moths with synthetic pheromones, breaking the breeding cycle. They’re easy to place in closets and drawers, and while they won’t fix an infestation alone, they’re a powerful supporting step.

• Place traps near wardrobe corners for maximum catch
• Replace every 2–3 months

7. Professional pest control for severe infestations

If you’ve tried everything and moths still come back, it’s time to call in experts. Companies like Good Housekeeping’s recommended pest services note that professionals have access to stronger treatments that eliminate infestations safely and quickly.

Natural Remedies vs Chemicals — Which Works Best?

When most people think about moth control, the first thing that comes to mind is mothballs. I grew up with that sharp, chemical smell in my grandmother’s closet—but today we know better.

Why mothballs are outdated & risky

Mothballs contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Healthline and Medical News Today have both highlighted the risks—especially in homes with children or pets. Beyond the health hazards, mothballs don’t actually prevent moths unless sealed tightly with the clothes, which most people don’t do. That means you get the worst of both worlds: chemical fumes and damaged clothes.

Safer modern alternatives (cedar oil, essential oils, herbal sprays)

The good news? You don’t need toxic fumes to protect your wardrobe. Natural repellents like cedar oil, lavender sachets, and herbal sprays create a hostile environment for moths without harming you or your family. Even refreshing cedar blocks with a bit of sanding can revive their moth-repelling power.

• Cedar oil: Naturally deters moths and adds a clean scent
• Lavender sachets: Replace every few months for best results
• Herbal sprays: DIY blends with thyme, rosemary, or cloves work well

Seasonal Prevention Plan

Clothes moths don’t just show up in winter—they thrive whenever conditions are right. Building a seasonal habit keeps you one step ahead.

What to do before storing winter clothes

Before you pack away sweaters, coats, or scarves:

• Wash or dry clean everything—moths love sweat and food traces
• Store clothes in airtight bags or sealed containers
• Add cedar or lavender sachets to storage boxes
• Vacuum and clean your closet before closing it up

This way, moths won’t find a single reason to make your closet home.

Summer maintenance checklist (ventilation + sun exposure)

Summer is prime time for moth activity. Keep your space unfriendly by:

• Opening wardrobes or drawers occasionally to let air circulate
• Hanging clothes in sunlight (moths hate bright, dry conditions)
• Rotating items you don’t wear often so nothing stays untouched for months.

Good airflow and light not only keep moths away, but they also make your space less inviting for spiders. If that’s something you’ve struggled with, these simple tips to make your home spider-free can help.

Think of it like seasonal wardrobe hygiene—small steps now save big frustration later.

Quick Troubleshooting for Stubborn Infestations

Sometimes, even after a thorough clean, moths keep coming back. When that happens, it’s usually because a hidden source is feeding them.

When moths keep coming back despite cleaning

If you’ve deep-cleaned your wardrobe but still find holes, the problem might be hiding elsewhere—like rugs, upholstered furniture, or even old blankets in storage. Moths don’t limit themselves to hanging clothes.

Symptom → Cause → Fix

The key is persistence: if signs keep returning, widen your search beyond the closet itself. Sometimes the hidden culprit is a rug under your bed or a box in the attic you forgot about. And remember, moths aren’t the only uninvited guests—flies can be just as persistent. Here are 4 homemade fly traps that actually work and are easy to put together.

Have you ever noticed moths coming back even after a deep clean? If yes, what was the hidden source in your case?

Wardrobe Protection Checklist

The truth about moth control is that it’s not a one-time fix. You and I both know how easy it is to relax once the closet looks clean—but that’s exactly when moths sneak back in. A simple, ongoing routine is the only way to stay truly moth-free.

5-step ongoing care routine (clean, store, air, monitor, refresh repellents)

Here’s a routine I follow myself and recommend to clients. It takes minutes but saves months of frustration:

1. Clean – Vacuum and wipe wardrobe interiors every month, paying attention to corners and seams.
2. Store – Keep delicate fabrics in airtight bags or sealed boxes when not in regular use.
3. Air – Rotate and air clothes in sunlight every few weeks to disrupt larvae cycles.
4. Monitor – Place pheromone traps in hidden corners and check them every month.
5. Refresh repellents – Sand cedar blocks lightly each season; replace lavender sachets when the scent fades.

This cycle keeps moths from ever gaining a foothold again. Think of it as wardrobe hygiene—just like brushing your teeth, it’s easier to prevent damage than repair it.

For inspiration, Total Wardrobe Care has a simple step-based system that shows how easy prevention can be. Using a ready-made visual reminder makes it harder to forget—and much easier to stay consistent.

Final Action Path — How to Stay Moth-Free Forever

At this point, you know exactly how moths sneak in, how to kick them out, and how to keep them from coming back. The last step is choosing the path that fits your life best—because your strategy should match your space and your wardrobe.

If you’re a renter with limited space

Small closets, shared storage, and tight apartments make prevention tricky. Your best bet is:

• Stick with airtight storage bags to save space and block moths completely
• Use multi-purpose cedar blocks that hang or fit in drawers
• Set compact pheromone traps in corners without taking up precious storage room

This approach doesn’t require renovations or bulky storage solutions—it’s all about smart, flexible tools that work in limited square footage.

If you own luxury fabrics (cashmere, silk)

When you’ve invested in high-value pieces, protecting them is non-negotiable. That means:

• Always dry clean before storage—moths love oils and residue left behind
• Store items in breathable garment bags (not just plastic wrap, which traps moisture)
• Rotate and air luxury fabrics every season, even if you’re not wearing them
• Pair storage with natural repellents like lavender or cedar oil for extra security

Think of it this way: you’re not just storing clothes—you’re protecting assets that should last years. A little care now saves hundreds of dollars down the line.

Moths don’t have to be a recurring nightmare. Whether you’re working with a tiny rented closet or guarding a collection of luxury fabrics, a smart prevention routine keeps your wardrobe safe for good.

Which category do you fall into—small space renter or luxury fabric owner? Share your story in the comments below.

And if you want more practical home care tips and guides just like this one, head over to Build Like New for strategies that keep your space fresh, safe, and stress-free.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only. While the tips shared here are based on research and practical experience, they should not replace professional pest control advice for severe infestations. Always follow product safety instructions and consult experts when needed.