Using a Steamer to Combat Clothes Moths

Steamers have long been a favorite tool in many households, and for good reason. Not only are they perfect for removing wrinkles from clothes, but they can also be an effective weapon in your fight against clothes moths. If you’ve read other posts on dealing with moth infestations, you’ll know that various strategies are necessary to address different stages of the moth lifecycle. A steamer can easily fit into your moth prevention routine, and we’re here to explain how to use it effectively.

What to Do When You Find Clothes Moths

If you’ve recently discovered moths in your wardrobe, it’s essential to take immediate action. Adult female moths love dark, cozy spaces like your wardrobe, where they can lay their eggs. Once these eggs hatch, the larvae begin feeding on natural fibers like wool, cashmere, silk, and leather—materials that contain keratin. Moths are also attracted to dust, which consists mostly of skin cells, as well as food stains and sweat on clothing, both of which provide larvae with additional keratin to feast on.

The first step is to empty your wardrobe and give it a thorough vacuuming, including any spaces underneath. Moth eggs can be hidden in dust, so don’t miss any cracks or crevices. Next, carefully inspect your clothes made from natural fibers for signs of moth damage. Dispose of anything that can’t be saved, and only return clean items to the wardrobe. For delicate fabrics, hand wash them or take them to the dry cleaners. When time is tight, using a steamer is a quick and effective solution.

Does Steam Kill Clothes Moths?

Yes, steam can kill all stages of the clothes moth lifecycle. Moths, like many insects, are sensitive to temperature. Anything above 50°C will cause their proteins to denature, and since steam is hotter than boiling water, it’s highly effective at killing them.

How to Use a Steamer for Moth Prevention

Once your steamer is filled with water and heated to the appropriate temperature, you can begin using it on your garments. Move the steamer up and down the fabric, paying particular attention to areas where moths are likely to hide, such as collars, cuffs, pockets, and underarms. Since steam cools quickly after being expelled, it’s crucial to keep the steamer head close to the fabric without actually touching it. Direct contact with the steamer plate can damage the material.

A good quality steamer will usually include a garment guard, which is a handy tool to prevent direct contact with the fabric. Hold the steamer head at a slight angle, allowing the steam to escape and avoid creating water spots. It may take a little practice to master the technique, so start with basic items like pillowcases or sheets before working with more delicate garments. Don’t forget, steamers can also be used on soft furnishings like curtains and sofas, so if your moth issue extends beyond your wardrobe, this could be an additional area to tackle.

After steaming, allow your clothes to dry completely before putting them back in your wardrobe. If you plan to store them for the season, make sure to use breathable garment bags to protect them from dust and moths. You can also add extra protection with scented moth repellents, which not only smell lovely but are also highly effective in keeping moths at bay.

The Benefits of Regularly Using a Steamer

Once you incorporate a steamer into your routine, you’ll likely find it indispensable. In addition to killing moths, steamers are incredibly versatile. They remove wrinkles without the risk of damaging fabrics, unlike traditional irons. Steam also kills bacteria and viruses, meaning you can reduce the frequency of washing or dry cleaning your clothes. Some boutiques are even allowing customers to try on clothes, knowing they’ll steam them afterward for a more hygienic experience.

Using a steamer in place of frequent dry cleaning can also help preserve your garments. Over time, dry cleaning can cause fabrics to lose their luster or even become shiny, especially with suits. By using a steamer and cutting back on dry cleaning, you can extend the lifespan of your clothes. Plus, handheld steamers are compact and easy to pack in a suitcase for travel.

By incorporating a steamer into your moth prevention routine, you not only protect your clothes from moths but also keep them looking fresh, wrinkle-free, and in excellent condition.