Can Cedar Closets Ward Off Clothes-Damaging Moths?

Jackets, coats, scarves, and gloves are essential clothing during winter. They are usually made of woolen materials that keep us warm. Storing winter clothing can be a challenge because they are thick and are only used during winter. Because they are stored in closets for a long time, they easily become a haven and breeding place for moths and in some cases, moth infestation. 

Moths are dull, drab insects that thrive in dark places like closets, basements, and attics.  They specifically love to hang out inside closets during their larva or caterpillar stage because their diet includes animal-based fibers like wool, silk, cashmere, fur, and angora.

Myth or Not a Myth?

Some people have said that closets made of cedar wood can keep moths away from clothes. But has this been proven to be true?

To some extent, cedar closets have the power to ward off pests like moths because they contain cedar essential oil. Even during the ancient Egyptian times, the essential oil has been used for cosmetics, perfumes, and insecticides. The cedarwood essential oil that we are using now comes from the coniferous evergreen Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana). It is used as a repellent for moths, mosquitoes, bed bugs, flies, and other insects.

But cedar closets can only be effective moth repellents if fumes from the cedar boards or planks are in high concentration. To replenish the scent, light sanding is required. One can also apply cedar essential oil or add cedar balls inside the closet. But one can never be sure if enough has been applied or not.

Please take note, however, that only young moth larvae are only killed by this method. Eggs and adult moths are not deterred by the cedar essential oil. Common pesticides are not safe in solving moth infestation. Correct moth identification and breeding removal are still the most effective solutions in eliminating this pest inside homes.

If you need personal assistance in removing moths, contact the pest control professionals at Jersey City Exterminators.