Hi, this is Justine from Ossian Knitwear. As the warmer weather arrives, one of the questions I’m asked most is how to put woollens away for the summer without any nasty surprises in autumn. Storing wool well really is the difference between lifting out a beloved jumper in September and finding it exactly as you left it – or discovering a moth has got there first. The good news is that protecting your knitwear is simple, natural and chemical-free.
Always clean before you store
This is the single most important step. Clothes moths are not actually drawn to clean wool – it’s the invisible traces of body oils, skin, food and perspiration left on a garment that attract them. Before storing, give each piece a gentle hand-wash or, at the very least, a thorough airing in fresh air and sunshine. Make sure everything is completely dry before it goes away, as any dampness can lead to mildew.
Choose breathable storage, never plastic
It’s tempting to seal woollens into airtight plastic boxes or vacuum bags, but wool is a natural fibre that needs to breathe. Trapped moisture can cause yellowing and mustiness. Instead, I recommend cotton storage bags, an old pillowcase, or acid-free tissue paper in a wooden drawer or box.
Always fold your knitwear rather than hanging it. The longwool breeds I work with create garments with a lovely weight and drape, and hanging them over summer will only encourage them to stretch out of shape.
How to keep moths away naturally
You don’t need harsh chemical mothballs to protect your wardrobe. A few simple, natural habits do the job beautifully:
- Cedar and lavender – cedar wood blocks and dried lavender bags are traditional moth deterrents. Refresh cedar with a light sanding and lavender every few months.
- Keep things moving – moths love dark, undisturbed corners. Take stored knitwear out every few weeks to shake and air it.
- Clean, dark and dry – vacuum drawers and wardrobes before storing, and keep them cool and dry.
- Inspect as you pack away – catching one or two moths early prevents a much bigger problem later.
If the worst happens
Even with the best care, the occasional small hole can appear over a garment’s lifetime – and that is nothing to despair over. Every piece I make comes with a lifetime guarantee of repair, because a small repair is always better than a garment lost to landfill. You can read more about my approach to slow, repairable fashion here, and if you’d like to add a beautifully made British wool piece to your collection, do visit the online shop.