5 Tips On How To Get Rid Of Closet Bugs

Don’t let pests compromise the integrity and beauty of your custom closets. With our expert tips, you learn how to get rid of closet bugs and maintain your closets in pristine condition. Read further to equip yourself with the best preventative strategies against pests.

You can rid your custom closets of pests with the following five tips:

In this article, you will learn more about how each of the above tips will assist you in preventing pests from visiting your beloved closets. Let’s get started!
how to get rid of closet bugs in your custom closet

Tip #1: Identify Common Closet Pests

Successful pest control begins with identification. Two common culprits found in closets are moths and silverfish. Swiftly addressing these pests is crucial to prevent significant damage.

Clothes Moths

According to Rutgers University University Publication, you can identify clothes moths by their tiny, white appearance. Adult moths have shiny, golden scales and can’t fly well. 

They munch on materials like cotton, silk, wool, and leather. Sometimes you’ll spot a silky, thread-like residue around damaged areas.

Moth Prevention in Closets

Preventing moths from invading your closets takes a proactive approach.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dealing with moths in your closets.
closet moths that destroy clothing fabric

Silverfish

Silverfish are teardrop-shaped, silvery bugs with a flattened body and antennae. They’re carnivorous, preferring clothes, paper, and (unlike clothes moths) food.

Pestworld notes that silverfish also create holes in fabrics they feed on and sometimes leave indications of their presence with black, pepper-like droppings.

Getting Rid of Silverfish in Closets

Here’s how you can reclaim your closet from these uninvited guests:
Remember, preventive measures are the best way to keep silverfish at bay. Regularly clean, declutter, and monitor your closet to prevent a future infestation.

Bonus Tip: Know The Other Types Of Closet Pests in Washington

Keeping your closets pest-free goes beyond merely dealing with moths and silverfish. In Washington, several other pests may try to invade your personal spaces. Let’s identify these unwelcome guests and discuss how you can deter them.

Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles are tiny, round insects that come in various colors. According to the Washington State University Extension, they consume natural fibers and can cause significant damage to your clothes, especially those made of wool or silk.

Preventing Carpet Beetles

holes in sweater left by closet pests

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are common pests that can infiltrate any part of the home, including closets. They are attracted to damp, dark spaces and can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Preventing Cockroaches

Remember, maintaining a clean and well-organized closet is the most effective way to prevent a pest infestation. Regular inspections and timely action can ensure your closets stay in top-notch condition, preserving the beauty and integrity of your clothes.

Tip #2: Re-Organize Your Wardrobe

Once you’ve confirmed the problem, prep your closets for cleaning. You’ll need trash bags you can seal. Sort your clothes into three categories:
Beyond Repair Salvageable – Machine-Wash Salvageable – Dry Clean Only
The fabric is too damaged to repair yourself You can repair these items after a machine-wash cycle You can repair but only dry clean the item

Tip #3: Destroy Pest “Hot Spots” And Habitats

Understanding how common pests live and thrive helps you pinpoint their presence.

Clothes moths aren’t attracted to light. You can find them nestled under shirt collars, a common hiding spot.

Silverfish prefer humid and damp areas, as explained previously by Pestworld.org. Like clothes moths, they’re nocturnal, and avoid warmth and light.

To get rid of these squatters for good, make sure you vacuum your custom closets. Don’t neglect tough-to-reach areas like corners and crevices.

Follow your vacuum job with a pest-repellent spray before storing any clean clothing.

spraying a fur coat to get rid of closet pests

Tip #4: Introduce Pest Control Methods To Your Cleaning Routine

Investing in a custom closet helps protect your items from household pests. You can choose between pre-made repellents or try making your own.

Many stores offer generic mothballs and pest repellent value packs, but it’s important to check their ingredients and ensure they are natural, non-toxic, and fabric-safe for your wardrobe items.

Pro-tip: Before making a trip to the store, bring an old garment you want to discard and test potential repellents on its fabric.

If you prefer a DIY approach, consider buying cedarwood hangers as they naturally repel moths. You can also create your own natural repellent at home using herbs like lavender and rosemary. Simply place these herbs in a sachet bag, add a few drops of cedar or lavender oil, and hang them on your hangers.

Tip #5: Create A Preventative Pest Control Plan For The Future

The best way to combat a pest problem is through preventative care. Set your household up for success by adding some of the following steps to your weekly routine:
using moth repellant to protect winter clothes

how to get rid of closet bugs FAQs

What kills closet bugs?

Closet bugs can be effectively killed using a combination of methods such as regular cleaning and vacuuming, use of suitable pest control treatments like sprays and traps, and maintaining a dry and well-ventilated environment.

For serious infestations, professional pest control services should be considered. These methods together help eliminate closet bugs and prevent future infestation.

Fabric bugs can be eliminated by thorough cleaning of infested items in hot water, use of effective pest sprays and traps, and maintaining a clutter-free environment.

Professional pest management services might be required for severe infestations. It’s important to follow proper preventative measures to avoid future infestations.

Closet moths are primarily attracted to natural fibers like wool, silk, cashmere, and fur, which provide the necessary nutrients for their larvae.

They are also drawn to dark, quiet, and undisturbed areas where they can lay their eggs. Furthermore, closet moths are lured by dirt, sweat, or food particles left on clothing. Regular cleaning and maintenance of closets can help keep these pests at bay.

You can use natural repellents such as lavender, cedarwood, or mothballs to deter bugs from your clothes. Additionally, consider applying insect repellent sprays specifically designed for fabrics.

Always ensure that the product is non-toxic and safe for your particular type of clothing. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your clothes and closet space also play a crucial role in keeping bugs away.

Talk To Washington's Custom Closet Pros

Get in touch with us at Creative Closets at (425) 428-5073. We’re passionate about creating top custom closets that solve your storage needs while keeping pests at bay.