Why Does Cedar Repel Moths

Sweaters are now a million-dollar industry. If you have a sweater that has lasted throughout the year, it likely has been stored in cedar wood. You might be wondering, “Does cedar repel moths?” Yes, it does. The smell of cedar is the scent of a well-known pesticide.

Background

Even in the time of the Ancient Greeks, humans realized that cedar wood kept the pests away. Humans constructed chests made from cedar. Though, it wasn’t until the 20s and 30s that scientists started to understand what cedar does and how it does it.

It is now known that cedar’s pest-repelling power is in the oil that permeates the wood. The oil from specific types of real cedar repels clothes moths from putting their eggs in wool and other fabrics.

Mothballs

Mothballs, the chemical alternative to cedar oil, are efficient but not recommended. They are true pesticide and can be deadly for anything or anyone (human, moth, pet) who inhales it. The chemicals in mothballs are hazardous and potent. They aren’t worth the risk of exposure for yourself and your loved ones.

If moths really are a huge enough issue for you, make sure to keep your attics and closets free of moths. This can be done by continuously vacuuming, up the dust and hair that attracts them.

Another Layer of Protection

You can help reestablish the cedar’s repellency by slightly sanding the cedar or by putting on a layer of cedar oil. The truth is you shouldn’t put your faith in cedar to stop fabric pests.

Having a storage chest that is closely constructed is way more important in keeping clothes moths out than if your wood chest is built from cedar. Call Rochester Tree Care Company to see if you can get a wooden storage chest constructed for you.

The heartwood of red cedar has natural oils that aid in killing clothes-moth larvae. Though, this by itself won't shield your clothing. It's not efficient against carpet beetles. With moths, it destroys just young larvae, not eggs or older larvae. Also, the effectiveness fades right along with the scent.

In order to keep moths at bay, you need to revitalize the potency of cedar by interchanging cedar chips, sprays, or strips every six months. You can also buy cedar wood trunks and hangers that can safeguard your clothing.

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