Good Question: Alternative to Moth Balls?

AT:LA reader Tula asks:
Hello AT, What is a good method for keeping moths away other than the nasty mothball? Any natural solutions? I heard lemon peels work and so does lavender. Any AT tips? My coats will love you. I, of course, already do."

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Hi Tula,
There are definitely more natural alternatives to traditional mothballs. The first one that we favor are ones made of cedar wood. They have cedar wood hangers, balls, and blocks readily available at most grocery and drug stores. We have also heard that lavendar works well too, although haven't personally tried it. Has anyone had any experience with lavendar? Does anyone have any moth repelling tips for Tula? Please share in the comments!

Related links:
•Moth protection? (via ATNY)
•Wiffleball sachets

Comments (5)

cedar has always worked for me!

posted by my little apartment on July 10th 2007 at 9:37am
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We use this mixture. I also added lavender last time I made it. It keeps the moths away and smells wonderful!

posted by chiffonade on July 10th 2007 at 9:48am
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Make little sachets (which can be as simple as old fabric scraps tied with a rubber band) of cloves and lavender. I use these for stored clothes AND I put some in the plants near my back door in the summer to keep the bugs away from the porch light.

posted by robyn on July 10th 2007 at 3:45pm
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Cedar essential oil in a sachet. Cheap and effective.

posted by chartreuse on July 10th 2007 at 9:21pm
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i understand that what we have in la is not moths but carpet beetles.

posted by abby on July 11th 2007 at 7:50am
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