Why Are Moths Attracted to Cashmere?
Despite popular belief, it’s not actually the adult moths that damage your clothing, but their larvae. These caterpillar-like creatures are attracted to natural, protein-based fibres such as cashmere, wool, and silk, especially when garments carry traces of skin oils, perspiration, food, or dust.
That is why even cashmere that looks clean can still be vulnerable if it has been worn and put away without washing.
6 Ways to Prevent Moths From Attacking Your Cashmere
1. Always Store Cashmere When It's Clean
One of the most important steps is to wash or dry-clean cashmere before putting it away for any length of time. Even if a jumper looks clean, invisible residue from wear can attract moth larvae.
Before storing cashmere:
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Wash it according to the care instructions or have it professionally cleaned
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Make sure it is fully dry before storing
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Avoid putting worn knitwear straight back into seasonal storage
Read our Cashmere Care Guide for more about how to clean the material.
2. Fold Your Cashmere Sweaters Rather Than Hanging Them
Cashmere, whether a scarf, wrap or a sweater, should be folded neatly rather than hung on a hanger. Hanging can stretch the fibres and distort the shape over time, especially with softer, finer knits.
Folded storage is not only better for the garment’s shape, but also makes it easier to keep pieces protected and contained.
3. Use Sealed Storage For long-term Protection
Open wardrobes and drawers make it easier for moths to reach your knitwear, so keep them closed. It would also be beneficial to store your clothes in sealed storage such as airtight storage boxes, zip-seal bags, and enclosed garment cases. The aim is to create a clean barrier between your cashmere and the surrounding environment.
4. Keep Your Wardrobe and Drawers Clean
A clean wardrobe is much less inviting to moths, so ensure you vacuum and dust your bedroom and closet regularly. Wipe down your wardrobes and drawers and spruce your bedroom corners, skirting boards, and carpets.
5. Use Cedar or Lavender As An Extra Deterrent
Cedar wood and lavender sachets can help make storage areas less appealing to moths. They are a useful addition to your wardrobe care routine and can help freshen enclosed spaces.
That said, they work best as a supporting measure rather than a complete solution. They should be used alongside proper cleaning and sealed storage, not in place of them.
6. Air Out and Rotate Your Cashmere Knits
Cashmere benefits from breathing between wears. Rather than packing pieces tightly together or leaving them untouched for months, air them out occasionally and rotate what you wear.
This helps reduce moisture build-up and makes it easier to spot any issues before they spread.
What To Do If You Suspect Moths
If you think moths may already be present, separate the affected item from the rest of your knitwear straight away. Then inspect the surrounding storage area carefully.
What to do with a cashmere item that has been attacked by moths:
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Place the item in a sealed bag
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Freeze it for 72 hours (this will kill the larvae)
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Let it return fully to room temperature
After that, clean the garment properly and thoroughly vacuum or wipe down the wardrobe, drawer, or shelf where it was stored.
FAQs
1. Are mothballs recommended to prevent moths from attacking clothes?
No. While effective, mothballs are toxic to humans and pets. We don’t recommend using mothballs. Instead, follow the steps listed above to prevent moths from attacking your clothes.
2. Is cedar enough to stop moths?
No. Cedar can help deter moths, but it works best when combined with clean storage habits and sealed containers.
3. Should cashmere be stored in plastic bags?
For long-term storage, sealed bags or airtight containers can help protect cashmere from moths, provided the garment is clean and completely dry first.
4. How do I know if moths have damaged my cashmere?
Small holes, thinning areas, webbing, or unusual shedding are all common signs of moth activity.
5. Can damaged cashmere be repaired?
Often, yes. Small holes and minor damage can often be repaired by a specialist knitwear repair service.
