Cedar wood and cedarwood oil are effective ways to kill and repel moths, their caterpillars, and eggs. Here's how to use cedar to get rid of moths:
Implementing Cedar for Moth Control
Here are several methods to utilize cedar for moth control:
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Cedar Hangers: Replace your existing clothes hangers with cedar hangers. This is an easy way to directly expose clothes to cedar's repelling properties.
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Cedar Blocks/Chips/Balls: Place cedar blocks, chips, or balls in closets and drawers. Sand them lightly every few months to refresh the scent.
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Cedar Sachet/Stocking Granules: Hang cedar granules in a sachet or stocking within your closet. This increases the surface area of cedar exposure.
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Cedarwood Oil: Apply cedarwood oil directly to cedar items like blocks or balls to boost their effectiveness. You can also dilute it and use it as a spray in moth-prone areas (test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't stain).
Key Considerations:
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Scent is Key: The effectiveness of cedar relies on its aroma. When the scent fades, lightly sand the cedar to expose fresh wood and release more oils, or replenish with cedarwood oil.
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Direct Contact is Best: Ensure the cedar is in close proximity to the clothing and items you want to protect.
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Cedar Repels, Doesn't Always Kill: While cedar can kill young moth larvae, its primary function is to repel moths and prevent them from laying eggs in the first place. Therefore, cleaning your clothes before storing them with cedar is important to remove any existing eggs.
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Combine with Other Methods: For severe infestations, consider combining cedar with other moth control methods, such as professional pest control services or using moth traps.
In summary, using cedar effectively involves incorporating cedar hangers, blocks, or oil-infused products directly into closets and drawers, ensuring the cedar scent remains strong, and combining it with proper cleaning practices.
