What are Mothballs? And why do you need them?

Protecting your garments: Beyond traditional moth balls with Clothing by Desiree

At Clothing by Desiree, we understand the care and thought you put into your wardrobe. As a New Zealand-made women's designer fashion brand, we pour our heart into creating comfortable, long-lasting, and stylish garments, from elegant dresses to chic jackets. We know that once you've invested in quality clothing, you want to ensure it stays in pristine condition for years to come. This often brings up the conversation about protecting fabrics from common pests like moths, and the traditional methods, such as moth balls. But what exactly are moth balls, and are they the best solution for your beautiful Clothing by Desiree garments?

Historically, moth balls have been a go-to for preserving clothing. These small, solid balls are designed to sublimate, gradually releasing a chemical vapours that either kills or repels clothes moths and their larvae. The primary active ingredients are typically naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. While effective at their job, these chemicals come with a distinctive, often strong odour that can cling to fabrics and may not be ideal for all users or environments. As a brand that champions quality and comfort, we want to explore modern, garment-friendly alternatives that ensure your treasured items are protected without compromising their freshness or appeal.

Our commitment to local production means every piece, from the initial design and pattern making in our Wellington workroom to the final stitch, is handled with meticulous care. We source our high-quality fabrics from New Zealand and Australian wholesalers, ensuring that your clothing is not only beautiful but also durable. Protecting these carefully crafted garments is paramount, which is why understanding effective and safe storage solutions is so important. Let's delve deeper into how you can safeguard your Clothing by Desiree pieces from moths and other fabric pests, keeping them ready to wear and enjoy.

Understanding the problem: why moths target your wardrobe

Before we discuss solutions, it's helpful to understand why moths are attracted to clothing in the first place. Not all moths are interested in your wardrobe; it's specifically the larvae of certain species, like the common clothes moth, that cause damage. These larvae feed on natural fibres, including wool, silk, cashmere, and even cotton, looking for keratin, a protein found in animal fibres. This is why your beautiful wool coat or silk top might be at risk if not properly stored.

Moths are particularly drawn to clothing that has been worn and contains food stains, perspiration, or body oils, as these provide additional nutrients for the larvae. Dark, undisturbed storage areas, like the back of your wardrobe or an attic, are ideal breeding grounds for these pests. They thrive in environments where they can lay their eggs uninterrupted, and their larvae can develop by feasting on your textiles.

At Clothing by Desiree, many of our garments are crafted from natural and blended fibres, offering comfort and breathability. Ensuring these pieces are protected from moths will preserve their integrity and extend their lifespan, allowing you to enjoy them for many seasons. We believe in creating pieces that are not just fashion-forward but also enduring, which makes proper garment care an integral part of your experience with our brand.

What are moth balls?

As mentioned, moth balls are a long-standing solution for pest control in garment storage. They work by releasing insecticidal vapours into enclosed spaces. The two main active ingredients commonly used are:

• Naphthalene: A chemical derived from coal tar or petroleum, known for its strong, distinctive odour.
• Paradichlorobenzene (PDCB): Another crystalline organic compound with a less pungent, though still noticeable, odour.

These chemicals are effective, but their use comes with considerations. The strong scent can be difficult to remove from clothing, often requiring extensive airing or multiple washes. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to these vapours can be irritating for some individuals, and there are environmental concerns associated with their widespread use. We want to provide you with alternatives that are gentle on your garments, safe for your home, and effective against moths, especially when caring for our thoughtfully designed pieces.

While some older generations may still rely on moth balls out of habit, there's a growing awareness of the downsides, prompting many to seek more natural and pleasant alternatives. As a modern New Zealand fashion brand, we continuously evaluate the best ways to care for and preserve clothing, and we encourage our customers to adopt practices that align with our values of quality, comfort, and sustainability.

Modern, garment-friendly alternatives to chemical moth balls

Protecting your beautiful Clothing by Desiree pieces from moths doesn't have to involve strong chemicals or unpleasant odours. There are several effective, sustainable, and garment-friendly alternatives that we recommend to keep your wardrobe pristine:

Camphorwood: A natural repellent

Camphorwood is a wonderful natural moth repellent. The aromatic oils in camphorwood contain compounds that deter moths without leaving behind a noxious chemical smell. Camphorwood comes in various forms, making it versatile for different storage needs:

• Camphorwood blocks or hangers: Ideal for hanging garments. Replenish the scent by lightly sanding them periodically.
• Camphorwood moth balls or sachets: Perfect for drawers, storage boxes, or tucked into pockets of folded items.

We love camphorwood because it offers a pleasant, earthy aroma and is a renewable resource. It's a fantastic choice for our high-quality fabrics, helping to preserve the fresh scent and feel of your clothing. Our favourite is camphorwood moth balls which are sold in a little bag so you can hang it up or put it in drawers. It also prevents any choking hazard for little kids who may come across them if scattered in drawers. 

Lavender and other aromatic herbs

Many herbs possess natural moth-repelling properties and a delightful scent. Lavender, rosemary, mint, and cloves can be bundled into sachets and placed strategically in your wardrobe or drawers. Not only do they deter moths, but they also impart a lovely fragrance to your clothes. This is a particularly charming way to care for delicate items or treasured occasion wear, ensuring they smell as good as they look when you pull them out.

Regular cleaning and proper storage

Perhaps the most crucial step in moth prevention is good housekeeping. Moths are less likely to lay eggs on clean fabrics. Before storing any garment for an extended period, especially seasonal items, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned. For our custom-made and ready-to-wear garments, always follow the care instructions. If you need help with care or repairs, remember we offer a comprehensive alterations service right here in New Zealand.

• Wash or dry clean: Remove any food particles, body oils, or perspiration that might attract moths.
• Air out regularly: Periodically airing out your wardrobe and clothing can help deter moths and keep garments fresh.
• Use breathable storage: Opt for cotton garment bags or acid-free tissue paper and storage boxes. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture, which can lead to mildew and yellowing.

Temperature control and humidity

Moths thrive in warm, humid conditions. Maintaining a cool, dry environment in your storage areas can significantly reduce their activity. A dehumidifier can be beneficial in damp climates or basements. This meticulous approach to storage reflects the same attention to detail we put into designing and producing our women's fashion in our Wellington workroom.

Freezing susceptible items

For highly delicate or precious items, freezing can be an effective way to kill any existing moth eggs or larvae. Place the garment in a sealed plastic bag and freeze it for at least 72 hours. Allow it to return to room temperature gradually before removing it from the bag.

How to care for your clothing by Desiree garments

Your Clothing by Desiree garments are an investment in quality and style. They are designed and made in New Zealand, with many pieces lovingly crafted by local outworkers who are mothers running their own small businesses from home. Protecting these garments is an extension of our commitment to quality and longevity. Here’s how you can keep your wardrobe safe and sound, without resorting to harsh moth balls:

For everyday wear and seasonal storage

When you're not wearing your favourite dress or a stylish skirt, proper storage is key:

1. Clean before storing: Always wash or dry clean garments before putting them away for the season. This removes any attractants for moths.
2. Use garment bags: For special occasion wear or woollen items, breathable cotton garment bags offer excellent protection.
3. Harness natural repellents: Place cedar balls or lavender sachets among your folded clothes and hang cedar hangers in your wardrobe. Remember to refresh cedar scents by sanding.
4. Regular inspections: Periodically check your wardrobe and stored items for any signs of moth activity. Early detection makes prevention much easier.

Our sewing supplies for mindful maintenance

Did you know we also offer a range of sewing supplies? While not specifically for moth prevention, these tools can help you maintain your garments, making them less appealing to moths:

• If you need to make a small repair, like replacing a button or cinch, addressing it promptly keeps the garment in top condition and less likely to be stored away as "damaged."
• Our heat erasable fabric pens and sewing clips are perfect for minor adjustments or mending, ensuring your items remain wearable and well-maintained.

For more significant repairs or to recreate a beloved piece, our made-to-measure and alterations services are available locally in Wellington. Because our production is 100% designed and made in New Zealand, you can trust our expertise in garment care and restoration.

A quick overview of moth prevention vs. moth balls

By implementing these thoughtful care practices, you can effectively protect your cherished Clothing by Desiree items from moths and other fabric pests, ensuring they remain beautiful and wearable for years to come. Our focus on quality and longevity extends from the creation of your garments to providing you with the knowledge to maintain them.

Seasonal garment storage tips

When the seasons change, and it's time to pack away your summer linens or pull out your winter wool, thoughtful storage is crucial for protecting your clothes from moths without needing moth balls. Here are our top tips for seasonal storage, ensuring your Clothing by Desiree pieces remain in perfect condition:

1. Clean EVERYTHING before storing

This cannot be stressed enough. Moths are attracted to human scent, food particles, and perspiration. Even if an item looks clean, give it a wash or dry clean according to its care label. For example, before storing your elegant Cassidy Dress, ensure it's spotless. This eliminates any potential food source for moth larvae and reduces their attraction.

2. Use appropriate storage containers

Opt for breathable options rather than sealed plastic, which can trap moisture and cause mildew. Acid-free archival boxes, cotton garment bags, or even clean vintage suitcases can provide excellent protection while allowing air circulation. Ensure containers are clean and dry before use.

3. Incorporate natural repellents

Once your items are clean and folded, place natural moth repellents directly into the storage containers or hang them in your wardrobe:

• Camphorwood: Scatter camphorwood moth balls among folded items or camphorwood sachets with hanging garments. Remember to refresh their scent annually by sanding them lightly. (If you have small children around, it is best to keep the balls inside the bag they are sold in)
• Lavender: Create small sachets filled with dried lavender and tuck them into drawers or storage boxes. The pleasant aroma will deter pests.
• Other herbs: Rosemary or mint can also be used in sachets for their deterrent properties.
• A Mix: It doesn't hurt to use multiple repellents at the same time, they won't interfere with each other but instead work together.

4. Choose the right storage location

Select a cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated area for seasonal storage. Attics and basements can be prone to temperature and humidity fluctuations, which are not ideal. A spare wardrobe, under-bed storage, or a dedicated closet can work well. Ensure the area is clean and dust-free.

5. Avoid overcrowding

Give your clothes space to breathe. Overcrowding can hinder air circulation and create ideal conditions for pests. It also makes it harder to spot any potential problems early on. 

6. Periodic checks

Even with the best precautions, it's wise to conduct periodic checks of your stored garments, especially during warmer months when moths are most active. This allows you to identify and address any issues promptly, protecting your investment in quality garments.

By following these steps, you can confidently store your Clothing by Desiree garments between seasons, keeping them fresh, protected, and ready to wear when their time comes again. Our mission is to provide you with comfortable, long-lasting, and stylish garments, and empowering you with these care tips helps fulfil that promise.

Frequently asked questions about moth prevention and garment care

Q1: Are those white chemical moth balls safe to use directly on my clothes?

A: While moth balls are designed to protect clothing, they release strong chemical vapours. We generally recommend avoiding direct contact with your garments due to the lingering smell and potential for chemical residue. Instead, we advocate for natural, pleasant-smelling alternatives like camphorwood moth balls and lavender, which are much gentler on your Clothing by Desiree pieces and your home environment.

Q2: How often should I replace natural moth repellents like camphorwood or lavender?

A: The effectiveness of natural repellents can fade over time. For camphorwood, we recommend gently sanding the wood annually to refresh its aromatic oils. For lavender sachets, replacing them every 6-12 months, or when you notice their scent diminishing, is a good practice to ensure continuous protection for your garments.

Q3: Can moths damage synthetic fabrics?

A: Moths primarily target natural fibres like wool, silk, and cotton, as they feed on the keratin protein found in animal fibres. While synthetic fabrics are less appealing, moths might still lay eggs on them, especially if the synthetics are blended with natural fibres or if they carry traces of food or perspiration. It's always best to keep all garments clean and stored properly, regardless of fabric composition, to prevent any potential damage.

Q4: My clothes smell like moth balls after being stored. How can I get rid of the smell?

A: If your clothes have picked up the scent of moth balls, the best way to remove it is by thoroughly airing them out in fresh air and sunlight. You may also need to wash the garments multiple times or have them dry-cleaned. Using baking soda or activated charcoal in a sealed bag with the garment for a few days can also help absorb lingering odours. For future storage, consider switching to natural moth repellents like our camphorwood moth balls to avoid this issue.

Q5: Where can I find more information on caring for my Clothing by Desiree garments?

A: Each of our garments comes with specific care instructions on its label. For general tips on maintaining the longevity of your designer fashion, including details about our alterations service or how our 100% designed and made in New Zealand clothing can be repaired or adjusted, you can always contact us directly at desiree@clothingbydesiree.com or visit our FAQs page online. We are committed to helping you keep your garments beautiful for a lifetime.