Moths in merino wool
What are clothes moths?
Clothes moths are small, pale moths about half a centimetre long. It is not the moth itself that eats clothes, but its larvae. The larvae feed on natural fibres and chew their way through the fabric as they grow. After a while they become new moths that fly on and lay eggs elsewhere. That is why an infestation can spread if it is left alone.
Why is wool vulnerable?
Moth larvae seek out keratin, a protein found in wool and other animal fibres. That means merino wool can become a target, just like any other natural wool. It is not a weakness in the fabric, but a basic condition of working with natural materials. Moths leave synthetics alone, but synthetics do not have wool's qualities either.
What does moth damage look like?
Moth damage is usually easy to recognise once you know what to look for. The holes are small or elongated, and they sit close together or in a row. They most often appear where moths can reach the garment, for example when a t-shirt is folded on a shelf and the larvae chew down through the layers.
For comparison, friction holes sit in one localized spot where the fabric rubs, while wash holes are scattered randomly across the garment. Read more in our guide to small holes in merino wool.
Where do moths hide?
- Dark, undisturbed wardrobes and shelves
- The bottom of the wardrobe, especially under layers of clothes
- Storage boxes that are rarely aired out
- Cracks behind furniture and along skirting boards
Moths prefer places where clothes lie still and undisturbed. The more you wear and move a garment, the less interesting it is to them.
How to prevent moths
- Air your clothes. Moths dislike light and movement. Hang wool out in fresh air now and then.
- Store clean and dry. Moths are drawn to dirt and moisture. Wash wool before storing it for a longer period.
- Use cedar or lavender. Moths dislike the smell. Place cedar blocks or a bag of dried lavender in your wardrobe.
- Wear your clothes. Garments you use regularly are rarely at risk.
How to get rid of moths
- Freeze the garment. Put it in a bag and freeze it for at least 48 to 72 hours at minus 18 degrees. This kills larvae and eggs.
- Wash or clean. Then wash the garment according to the care label.
- Clean the wardrobe. Vacuum and wipe corners, cracks and shelves thoroughly to remove eggs and larvae.
What about the right to claim?
Moth damage is an external cause and is therefore not covered by the right to claim, in the same way that damage from washing or wear is not. The moths come from your surroundings, not from production.
But we are happy to be lenient about it. Moths can affect anyone, and natural fibres have natural conditions. Write to us if you find moth damage on a LOOW garment. Let us know when you noticed it and how the garment was stored, and we will find a solution together.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
How do I know if it is moth damage?
Moth holes are small or elongated and sit close together or in a row, usually where moths can reach the garment, for example when a t-shirt is folded on a shelf. Friction holes sit in one localized spot, and wash holes are scattered randomly across the fabric.
Does my warranty cover moth damage?
Moth damage is an external cause and is not covered by the right to claim, just like damage from washing or wear. But we are happy to be lenient, so write to us and we will find a solution together.
How do I get rid of moths?
Freeze the garment in a bag for at least 48 to 72 hours at minus 18 degrees to kill larvae and eggs, then wash it according to the care label, and clean your wardrobe thoroughly.
How do I prevent moths in my wool?
Air your clothes now and then, store them clean and dry, use cedar or lavender in your wardrobe, and wear your t-shirts regularly. Clothes that are used are rarely at risk.