Good To Know: Nontoxic Sweater Savers

Take care of your knits and the environment.

May/June 2007
By Ken Hoyt 
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Make your own cedar sachet to ward off wool-eating moths.
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When it’s time to put fine wool garments away for the season, a few minutes of pre-storage care can prevent moth damage and add years to your clothing’s life. Mothballs contain naphthalene, a chemical that harms the nervous system and destroys red blood cells. This cedar sachet will help protect and gently scent your valued garments.

RELATED CONTENT

Cedar Sachet

Cedar oils are sold by their origins; look for Western red and Virginia cedar wood oils.

-6 cups cedar shavings (sold in bags at pet stores)
-1 teaspoon cedar wood essential oil
-1 yard cotton or linen fabric
-6 yards ribbon or twine
-12 rubber bands

1. Place shavings in a glass bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of essential oil. Mix thoroughly.
2. Set aside for 2 to 24 hours. Add more oil for a stronger scent. 
3. Cut fabric with pinking shears into a dozen 12-by-12-inch squares. Cut a dozen 18-inch lengths of ribbon or twine.
4. Place 1/2 cup of shavings in the center of a fabric square. Gather edges and fasten with a rubber band, followed by the ribbon tied in a bow. 
5. Tuck a sachet in each drawer or storage container. Refresh the oil in your sachet annually.

Storage Tips 

• Clean wool clothes before storing. Moths are  attracted to stains from food, body oil and sweat.
• Hand wash or dry clean garments to rid them of moth eggs or larvae. Ironing also works.
• Freeze out moth eggs by putting garments in a sealable plastic bag and placing it in the freezer for two to three days.

 

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