When you’re putting away clothing, linens, or fabrics for long-term storage, protecting them from moths and other fabric-damaging pests is essential. Moths, carpet beetles, and silverfish can quietly ruin your favorite clothes and delicate fabrics by feeding on natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton. Two of the most common ways to protect textiles in storage are mothballs and cedar products. But which is better, and how do you use them safely? At Edson’s Movers, we’ve helped countless customers prepare their wardrobes and household items for storage, and we know what works best to keep your textiles fresh, pest-free, and long-lasting.
Why Fabrics Need Protection in Storage
Even clean clothes attract pests if they’re left exposed for too long. Moths and beetles are drawn to protein-based fibers (like wool) and the oils, sweat, or food residue left behind on fabric. Once inside a storage box or closet, they lay eggs, and larvae can feed unnoticed for months, leaving behind holes, fraying, and musty odors. Protecting fabrics during storage isn’t just about keeping them clean—it’s about creating an environment pests avoid altogether.
At Edson’s Movers, we teach clients that textile protection starts before packing: washing, drying, and sealing clothes properly make all the difference.
Option 1: Using Mothballs for Fabric Protection
What Are Mothballs?
Mothballs are small chemical pesticide balls traditionally made with naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene—both of which release vapors toxic to moths, larvae, and other insects. They’re highly effective but must be used with caution due to their strong odor and potential health hazards if misused.
Pros of Mothballs:
✅ Very effective at killing and repelling moths and larvae.
✅ Provides long-lasting protection in tightly sealed containers.
✅ Works well for wool, furs, and heavy winter garments.
Cons of Mothballs:
🚫 Strong chemical odor that can linger in fabrics for weeks.
🚫 Toxic if inhaled or ingested—keep away from children and pets.
🚫 Can react with plastics or fabrics if in direct contact for too long.
How to Use Mothballs Safely:
- Use in airtight containers only. The vapors must be trapped inside to be effective.
- Never place mothballs directly on fabric. Use a small cloth pouch or separate layer to prevent staining.
- Label storage boxes clearly. This prevents accidental opening or exposure to fumes.
- Air out fabrics thoroughly before wearing or using them again.
At Edson’s Movers, we generally recommend mothballs only for short-term or high-risk storage—such as vintage garments, wool blankets, or rarely used textiles.
Option 2: Using Cedar for Natural Fabric Protection
What Makes Cedar Effective?
Cedar wood—especially Eastern red cedar—naturally emits oils that repel moths, silverfish, and other pests. It doesn’t kill insects but acts as a natural deterrent, making it a safer and more pleasant-smelling alternative to mothballs. Cedar is available in blocks, chips, sachets, and hanger inserts, making it easy to use for various storage setups.
Pros of Cedar:
✅ Non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
✅ Pleasant, fresh scent that neutralizes odors.
✅ Safe for all fabric types.
✅ Long-lasting when refreshed properly.
Cons of Cedar:
🚫 Less potent than mothballs—requires regular maintenance.
🚫 Needs to be refreshed every few months with cedar oil to remain effective.
🚫 Doesn’t kill existing infestations—only prevents new ones.
How to Use Cedar for Storage:
- Clean and dry items before storage—cedar only works on pest-free fabrics.
- Distribute evenly: Place cedar blocks or sachets throughout your storage containers or closet.
- Avoid direct contact: Keep cedar pieces from touching delicate fabrics to prevent potential oil stains.
- Refresh regularly: Apply a few drops of cedar oil every 3–6 months to maintain potency.
Edson’s Movers frequently recommends cedar products for long-term textile storage—especially in Arizona’s hot, dry climate, where cedar performs exceptionally well as a natural repellent.
When to Use Mothballs vs. Cedar
Choosing between mothballs and cedar depends on your storage environment, duration, and fabric type.
For best results, never mix cedar and mothballs in the same container—the chemicals can interact, reducing effectiveness and creating overpowering fumes.
Additional Tips for Textile Protection
Whether you choose mothballs or cedar, these extra precautions will ensure your fabrics stay safe:
- Always wash and dry fabrics before storage to remove oils and odors that attract pests.
- Store in airtight or sealed containers rather than cardboard boxes.
- Avoid plastic wrap for natural fibers, as it traps moisture and encourages mildew.
- Use breathable fabric bags for delicate clothing like suits or dresses.
- Check items every few months for early signs of moth or mold activity.
- Combine with dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers in your storage area to control humidity.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Mothballs
If you prefer natural options, try these alternatives:
- Lavender sachets: Naturally repel moths and leave a fresh scent.
- Clove and cinnamon sachets: Deter insects and add a pleasant aroma.
- Herbal blends: Many natural moth-repellent sachets combine cedar, rosemary, and lavender for maximum effect.
Edson’s Movers often recommends these eco-friendly solutions for customers who prefer non-toxic, sustainable storage protection.
How Edson’s Movers Helps Protect Your Belongings
Our team at Edson’s Movers takes every precaution to ensure your belongings remain safe, clean, and pest-free during storage and transport. From rodent-resistant packing materials to climate-controlled storage options, we create a customized plan that meets your needs. If you’re storing textiles, we’ll help you choose the right protection method—whether that’s mothballs, cedar, or natural alternatives—so your garments and linens stay pristine.
Keep Your Textiles Safe and Fresh with Edson’s Movers
Proper textile protection is about more than just packing—it’s about prevention. Whether you’re storing heirloom linens, vintage clothes, or seasonal wardrobes, using the right protection method makes all the difference. Trust Edson’s Movers to guide you through every step of your move or storage preparation, ensuring your fabrics stay pest-free, fresh-smelling, and ready to use when you need them.