How to deal with moths and repair holes in wool

Step by step

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   Step 1: Check for activity

   Look for small holes, silky tubes and tiny cream larvae, especially in seams and under collars. Carpet beetle larvae are small and furry and do similar damage.

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   Step 2: Freeze it

   Seal the item in a zip lock bag, squeezing out the air, and freeze for at least 72 hours. Thaw it in the bag, then freeze again for good measure.

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   Step 3: Brush and clean

   Brush the piece outdoors and wash or dry clean it. Moths love dirty wool, especially sweat and food stains.

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   Step 4: Darn small holes

   Stretch the hole over a darning mushroom. Weave matching wool up and down past the edges of the hole, then weave across through those threads like a little loom.

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   Step 5: Use a patch for big damage

   For larger holes, a neat patch or a visible mend can look great. Professional invisible mending is worth it for good coats.

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   Step 6: Store it right

   Store clean wool in sealed bags or boxes with cedar or lavender. These deter moths but don't kill them, so check your stored wool every few months.