Storing clothing properly is key to keeping fabrics looking and smelling fresh. Many people default to using mothballs, but these smelly nuggets contain dangerous chemicals. A safer, natural alternative is lavender. Here’s why you should choose lavender over mothballs for clothing storage.
Why Lavender is Better Than Mothballs
Lavender has many advantages over mothballs:
- Lavender is natural and non-toxic. Mothballs contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Lavender comes from a plant and is safe to use around people and pets.
- Lavender has a pleasant aroma. The clean, floral scent of lavender is much more enjoyable than the strong mothball odor. It leaves clothes and linens lightly scented.
- Lavender repels moths. The natural oils in lavender deter moths and other insects from laying eggs in fabrics. It’s an effective, chemical-free pest deterrent.
- Lavender is versatile. Beyond clothing storage, dried lavender buds can be used in sachets, potpourri, and even culinary recipes. Mothballs have only one very stinky use.
Using Lavender for Storing Clothes
Here are some tips for using lavender to protect clothing in storage:
Dried Lavender Buds
Place small muslin bags filled with dried lavender buds in dresser drawers, luggage, and storage boxes. The scent permeates fabrics and deters moths. Refresh dried lavender every few months as the oils dissipate.
Lavender Sachets
Small sachets filled with lavender are perfect for tucking into the pockets of rarely worn jackets, coats, and other garments before storage. The sachets provide ongoing aroma and pest control.
Lavender Essential Oil
Add a few drops of pure lavender essential oil onto cotton balls. Place the cotton balls inside clothing storage boxes and chests. The oil provides a clean, fresh scent.
Lavender Sprays
Make a light lavender spray by adding several drops of lavender oil into a spray bottle filled with water. Mist stored clothing and fabrics lightly to refresh the lavender aroma.
Storing Clothing with Lavender by Season
Lavender makes clothing storage easier all year round:
Spring & Summer Clothing Storage
In the warmer months, stow lightweight garments like sundresses, shorts, t-shirts, and swimsuits with lavender to keep them smelling fresh for next year.
Fall & Winter Clothing Storage
As seasons change, put away coats, sweaters, scarves, and other cool weather apparel with lavender sachets or dried buds. This deters moths and dust while preventing musty odors.
Off-Season Storage
Rotate clothing in and out of storage as needed. Always include lavender to repel moths and mend odors in garments worn for only part of the year.
Year-Round Storage
Some specialty clothing, like wedding dresses, christening gowns, or heirloom textiles, stays in storage year-round. Lavender is ideal for keeping these precious items protected.
Other Lavender Storage Uses
Beyond clothing, lavender works well for storing many household textiles:
- Linens like sheets, tablecloths, and towels
- Stuffed animals and toys
- Stored fabric scraps or crafting materials
- Vintage quilts, blankets, pillows
- Packed away holiday decorations
Tuck lavender sachets anywhere you store fabrics or textiles of any kind. The natural pest and odor control will keep items fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lavender Storage
How much lavender should I use?
Start with 2-3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds per small bag or sachet. For a large chest or storage bin, use 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of buds. Add more if the aroma starts to fade.
How long does lavender last in storage?
Refresh dried lavender every 3-6 months. The scent diminishes over time as oils dissipate. Check clothing periodically and replace faded lavender.
Where can I buy dried lavender buds?
Dried lavender buds are available at most craft stores, herb shops, and online. Look for organic lavender buds free of pesticides or chemicals.
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
It’s best to use fully dried lavender buds for clothing storage, as fresh buds can sometimes mold. Hang fresh lavender bundles upside down to dry before using.
What kind of lavender is best?
English lavender and French lavender work equally well. Avoid decorative lavender varieties that have less aroma. Seek out buds with the strongest possible scent.
Why Choose Lavender Over Mothballs
Lavender is the safer, smarter choice compared to mothballs for protecting stored clothing and textiles. With a pleasant natural scent and effective pest repelling abilities, lavender is an ideal non-toxic solution for keeping stored fabrics fresh and damage-free. Avoid the risks of chemical mothballs and opt for fragrant, versatile lavender instead. Your clothing, linens, and other stored textiles will smell great and stay protected from insects when stowed away with sachets or dried buds of this fresh-smelling botanical.
Conclusion
Lavender is a natural, effective way to keep stored clothing and textiles smelling fresh and moth-free. Its pleasant aroma and pest repelling properties make it a better choice than toxic mothballs. Place sachets or dried lavender buds in clothing storage boxes, chests, and closets to safely deter moths and prevent musty odors. With a few simple lavender preparations, you can pack away garments, linens, and specialty textiles for any season knowing they’ll stay protected and fresh-smelling until you need them again.