Stop Moth Damage and Enhance Scent: Why Cedar Belongs in Your Drawers
What To Know
- Cedar has a beautiful reddish-brown hue that can add a touch of elegance to your drawers.
- Using cedar in drawers is a natural and effective way to protect your clothes from moths and other insects.
- However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of fabric before using cedar on a large scale.
Why Put Cedar in Drawers?
Cedar wood has been used for centuries as a natural moth repellent. It contains a compound called cedrol, which has insecticidal and antifungal properties. When cedar is placed in drawers, the cedrol vapor repels moths and other insects, protecting your clothes from damage.
Benefits of Using Cedar in Drawers
In addition to its moth-repelling properties, cedar offers several other benefits for your drawers:
- Fresh Scent: Cedar has a pleasant, woodsy scent that can freshen up your drawers and clothes.
- Moisture Resistance: Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, helping to keep your drawers dry and prevent mold growth.
- Durability: Cedar is a strong and durable wood that can withstand years of use.
- Aesthetics: Cedar has a beautiful reddish-brown hue that can add a touch of elegance to your drawers.
How to Use Cedar in Drawers
There are several ways to use cedar in drawers:
- Cedar Blocks: Place cedar blocks in the corners of your drawers or between layers of clothing.
- Cedar Chips: Sprinkle cedar chips on the bottom of your drawers or in cloth bags.
- Cedar Lining: Use cedar lining paper to cover the bottom and sides of your drawers.
- Cedar Chest: Store your clothes in a cedar chest to protect them from moths and other pests.
Other Natural Moth Repellents
If you prefer not to use cedar, there are other natural moth repellents you can try:
- Lavender: Lavender oil or dried lavender flowers can repel moths.
- Rosemary: Rosemary oil or dried rosemary leaves have moth-repelling properties.
- Cloves: Cloves are a strong insect repellent.
- Bay Leaves: Bay leaves can be placed in drawers or hung in closets to deter moths.
- Peppermint: Peppermint oil or dried peppermint leaves can repel moths.
When to Replace Cedar in Drawers
Cedar loses its potency over time, so it’s important to replace it regularly. Replace cedar blocks and chips every 6-12 months, and cedar lining every 2-3 years.
Key Points: Protect Your Clothes with Cedar
Using cedar in drawers is a natural and effective way to protect your clothes from moths and other insects. Its pleasant scent, moisture resistance, and durability make it an excellent choice for drawer storage. By following these tips, you can keep your clothes looking their best for years to come.
Popular Questions
1. Is cedar safe for all types of clothing?
Yes, cedar is safe for most types of clothing, including wool, cotton, silk, and linen. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of fabric before using cedar on a large scale.
2. Can I use cedar to repel other insects besides moths?
Yes, cedar can also repel other insects, such as silverfish, carpet beetles, and cockroaches.
3. Is cedar toxic to humans or pets?
Cedar is generally considered safe for humans and pets. However, some people may experience allergic reactions to cedar dust.
4. How often should I replace cedar in my drawers?
Cedar should be replaced every 6-12 months for blocks and chips, and every 2-3 years for lining.
5. Can I use cedar chips in my closet?
Yes, cedar chips can be placed in cloth bags and hung in closets to repel moths.
