Does lavender really deter moths?

Author: Esmeralda Purdy  |  Last update: Sunday, October 5, 2025

It has terpene compounds that are said to help keep moths away,” she says. As for what terpene compounds are: the linalool, linalyl acetate, cineole, and camphor in lavender are what's thought to help repel moths, as well as other pesky insects like mosquitoes.

Does lavender really keep moths away?

Making herbal sachets with thyme and lavender is an effective way to repel moths naturally. Moths dislike the strong scents of these herbs and tend to stay away from clothes and linens that come in contact with them. Simply fill a small cloth bag with dried thyme and lavender and place it in your closet or drawers.

What is the most effective moth deterrent?

Natural scents like lavender are also sometimes effective at keeping away flying adult moths but, as with all natural moth repellents, they don't have any effect on moth larvae. After cedar, the next best option is lavender, followed by bay leaves, cloves, rosemary, and thyme.

What smell do moths hate the most?

Moths really don't like the strong smell of cedar, so all you have to do is use some sandpaper on the block every few months to “revive” the scent. Depending on the wardrobe's size, you may need more than one cedar block to achieve the desired saturation. Another popular choice is lavender.

Do lavender bags work?

Lavender bags are a great way of stopping your clothes becoming a buffet for those pesky moths and will keep your clothes smelling wonderfully fresh at the same time. Keep the moths at bay and keep your clothes smelling fresh at the same time.

Protect Your Wardrobe From Moths | This Morning

When not to use lavender?

Lavender applied to skin may cause irritation in some people. Oral use of Lavender may cause constipation, headache, and increased appetite. Lavender oil is toxic if taken orally. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender.

Which lavender is best for moths?

– The choice of lavender can also affect the moths. In my opinion, the highly fragrant Lavandula X Intermedia is the best for this purpose as the fragrance contains elements of camphor which is what the moths object to. A softer fragrance such as Lavandula Angustifolia will be less effective.

What kills moths instantly?

For an instant kill, cleaning containers using a solution of hot soapy water will instantly kill Pantry Moth Eggs. Additionally, freezing items will kill eggs and larvae, although you must wait 72 hours for this method to be effective.

Do dryer sheets repel moths?

Dryer sheets typically contain chemicals such as linalool, beta-citronellol, and geraniol, which are known to have some insect-repellent properties.

What can I put outside to keep moths away?

Using Citronella Oils for Moth Prevention

Use this handy trick to keep moths and other pests away from your outdoor areas. In the morning spray or paint some citronella oils on your light bulbs. As night falls they should be dry.

How do I permanently get rid of moths?

More videos on YouTube
  1. DEEP CLEAN THE AREA - Use soap and water to wipe down surfaces and thoroughly vacuum cracks and crevices.
  2. USE A NATURAL MOTH KILLER - This will safely remove any larvae and eggs that might still be present. ...
  3. STORE CLOTHES CORRECTLY - Ensure you store your clothes in mothproof clothes storage bags.

What attracts moths to your yard?

Plant flowers that release their scent in the evening to attract moths and, ultimately, bats looking for an insect-meal into your garden. Flowers that release their scent in the evening are a big draw for moths so planting them is a great way of attracting moths into your garden.

What color do moths hate the most?

Moths won't respond to a yellow light if they are at a distance as it appears very faint. Therefore, most people buy yellow light bulbs as there will be fewer moths in their homes.

Does lavender repel anything?

Lavender scares away moths, fleas, flies and mosquitoes. For centuries, this lilac-colored plant has been used to add a sweet and pleasant fragrance to homes and clothing drawers. And while the vast majority of humans love the smell of lavender, mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted insects hate it.

Does vacuuming get rid of moths?

Just like tackling fleas, vacuuming is a great weapon against moths. A high powered vacuum cleaner can suck up and kill moth eggs and larvae.

Do I need to wash all my clothes if I have moths?

The most common and effective method for killing all stages of clothes moths in clothing, blankets, and other washable articles is to thoroughly launder them for 20 to 30 minutes in water that is at least 120°F.

What material do moths hate?

-Natural oils such as cedar oils and cedar chests are said to repel clothing moths, but the University of California at Davis Integrated Pest management center says there is little research to support this fact. You can try various natural oils, especially cedar, to repel moths.

What is the most effective moth killer?

The Pest Expert Formula 'P' Fogger is an aerosol (ULV) device which releases a moth-killing pyrethrin gas that expands to fill a room, delivering a rapid knockdown of both clothes and carpet moths. As it does not need to be lit, it offers no fire risk and so is perfectly safe for use in enclosed spaces like wardrobes.

Does lavender repel moths?

Another good option for deterring moths is lavender oil. When you use lavender essential oil for moths, the scent naturally deters the insects from wanting to nest or inhabit an area. Many people also like the scent of lavender essential oils.

What smell do house moths hate?

The best natural moth-repellent essential oil is cedar. Cedar oil is strong and effective and the moths don't like it! Other good essential oils to repel moths include lavender, rosemary, lemon, bergamot, sage, and mint.

How to make lavender spray for moths?

Moth repellent spray
  1. Water 4 ounces.
  2. Essential oil of cedar – 20 to 30 drops.
  3. Essential oil of lavender - 10 to 20 drops.
  4. Essential oil of peppermint - 5 to 10 drops.
  5. Essential oil of eucalyptus - 10 to 20 drops.
  6. Optional: Citronella essential oil - 5 drops.

Is lavender safe for dogs?

According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), Lavender is generally considered mildly toxic to dogs when ingested in significant quantities. The primary compounds responsible for its toxicity are linalool and linalyl acetate, naturally occurring chemicals in lavender plants.

What is a natural repellent for moths?

Eucalyptus — Eucalyptus leaves and essential oil are excellent for keeping moths at bay. Their sharp, menthol-like scent is unappealing to moths. In addition, compounds such as cineole (aka eucalyptol) offer antibacterial effect, helping to keep your clothing environment cleaner and less attractive to moths!

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