I don’t mind sharing my home when it is necessary, but I don’t like sharing my home with moths. I believe that in order for me to get, and keep the moths out of my home, I should do so without the use of pesticides. I also like to take this a step further; I don’t like to kill living creatures. Getting and keeping moths out of the home, and doing so organically, can be done by following these easy steps.
1. Keep the moths from coming into the home. The best way I know of doing this is to make sure that the screens around your windows have a nice, snug fit, and there are no unnecessary gaps around your screen doors. If so, you can purchase a roll of foam sealer for doorways at just about any hardware store. There is adhesive on one side that you apply around the doorways, and will help to close up the gaps between the screen doors and the door frame.
2. Regular cleaning is of the utmost importance in getting rid of moths, and keeping them out of your house. At least twice a month, thoroughly vacumn and dust your carpet; especially around the baseboards where dust seems to collect. If the weather permits, this is a good time to air out cushions, pillows and throw rugs. Give them a good shake to get the dust off, and let the fresh air help to add a scent to these things.
Moths have a lifespan of about 21 days, so this type of intense cleaning need only be done about twice a month.
3. Use Cedar oil in your cleaning water. We have been told for years that the scent of cedar will repell moths. Well, it will. It is part of my cleaning routine to once a month wash my outside doors and door frames. I add cedar oil to my wash water. It helps to keep moths from wanting to come into our house in the first place.
4. I read on a web site that making sachets of lavender and/or mint will repel moths. Well, I took this a step further and planted lavender and mint in strategic areas around the house outside. When I feel it is necessary, all I have to do is go out and cut some mint leaves, bruise them a little bit and put in decorative bowls around the house. I also like to cut some lavender and put in vases. Not only does the scent help to keep moths out, the vases of lavender are aesthetically pleasing to look at.
5. Make sure cabinets and closets are kept clean. Kitchen cabinets are notorious for having crumbs, and moths are attracted to the free food. If necessary keep your dry goods in air tight storage containers. When putting clothes away, make sure they are put away clean. The scent of body sweat and oils attract moths as well.
Remember, it is quite easy to get and keep moths out of your house. All it takes is a little will power and elbow grease, and that is free.
