As spring arrives and temperatures climb, it’s time to swap out those heavy coats, sweaters, scarves, and woolens and send them into seasonal storage. But before you tuck away your winter favorites, there’s one critical step that often gets overlooked — and it could mean the difference between pulling out pristine garments next winter or discovering holes and damage from an unwanted pest: the clothes moth.
Clothes moths are tiny insects whose larvae feast on natural fibers like wool, cashmere, silk, and fur. What draws them most? Sweat, body oils, food stains, and residual dirt left on garments. These attract moths and give larvae food sources to thrive on while your clothes sit undisturbed.
Why Cleaning Comes First
Even clothes that “look clean” can still carry microscopic residues. These invisible oils are exactly what larvae feed on, and storing them away without cleaning can invite moths in. Experts recommend thoroughly washing or dry cleaning garments before storage to remove these attractants — a foundational step in preventing moth infestations.
The Right Storage Techniques
Once properly cleaned, winter clothes need to be stored carefully:
● Choose the right containers: Airtight plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags can keep pests out, but ensure clothes are fully dry before packing to avoid moisture issues.
● Cool, dry conditions: Moths thrive in warm, humid spaces. A cool, dry closet or storage area drastically reduces the odds of an infestation.
● Natural repellents: Cedar blocks or lavender sachets help deter moths without harsh chemicals — and they leave clothes smelling fresh.
● Regular check-ins: Seasonal clothes shouldn’t be left untouched for months on end. Periodic inspections help catch early signs of trouble like webbing or tiny holes.
These proactive steps go a long way toward preserving your seasonal items and protecting your wardrobe investment.
Professional Cleaning Makes a Difference
For many busy households, professional clothing care is the smart first step in winter-to-spring wardrobe transitions. That’s where Fabricare Cleaners comes in. Fabricare is a full-service dry cleaning and fabric care provider with decades of experience preparing clothes for seasonal storage.
“The most common mistake people make when storing winter clothes is skipping the cleaning step — and that’s exactly what moths are looking for. We get panicked calls every season from customers who discover moth damage throughout their wardrobe.” – Michael Astorno, Owner of Fabricare Cleaners
Using advanced, eco-friendly dry cleaning processes, the team at Fabricare removes stains, body oils, and residues that are invisible to the eye but highly attractive to moths and other pests. Clean fabric doesn’t just look better — it’s less appealing to larvae looking for a food source. That simple step of professional cleaning can make all the difference when clothes are stored for months.
Beyond dry cleaning, Fabricare also offers convenient services like free pickup and delivery and tailored garment care — making wardrobe maintenance easier for seasonal residents and busy professionals alike. Call 203-229-0001 for more information.
