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Cedar has been used to protect clothes for generations – think of the traditional cedar-lined chest. But does it actually work against clothes moths, and how long do cedar hangers, rings and balls really last? Here are the honest answers.
Does cedar repel moths?
Yes. Aromatic red cedar contains natural oils that adult clothes moths avoid. When moths steer clear of your wardrobe, they don’t lay eggs on your clothes – and it’s the larvae that hatch from those eggs that eat holes in wool, cashmere and silk.
What cedar won’t do is wipe out an infestation that’s already there. Cedar is a natural repellent, not an insecticide. If you already have moth larvae in your clothes, clean them out first (see our guide on how to get rid of clothes moths), then use cedar to keep them away for good.
Do cedar hangers repel moths?
Yes – hanging cedar blocks work the same way as any cedar: the oil in the wood deters adult moths. Because they hang on the rail between garments, cedar hangers spread that protection through the whole wardrobe. For the best coverage, space them evenly along the rail rather than bunching them at one end.
Do cedar rings work for moths?
They do, and they’re one of the most effective ways to use cedar because they sit right on the hanger – so each garment gets its own protection. Cedar rings are especially useful for your most precious knits and coats.
How long do cedar hangers last?
The cedar wood itself lasts for years. What fades is the scent – and it’s the scent (the natural oil) that repels moths. In a typical wardrobe, you’ll notice the scent weakening after around three months.
The fix is simple: give your cedar a light sand. Sanding removes the dried-out surface layer and exposes fresh wood full of natural oil. That’s why every ecoKiwi pack comes with sandpaper.
| Cedar product | Wood lasts | Refresh the scent |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar hangers / blocks | Years | Light sand every 3 months |
| Cedar rings | Years | Light sand every 3 months |
| Cedar balls | Years | Light sand or roll in sandpaper every 3 months |
How long do cedar blocks last before replacing?
With regular sanding, you rarely need to replace them. Replace a piece only if it’s been sanded down so far it’s become very small, or if it no longer releases any scent even after a good sand.
Can cedar damage delicate fabrics like silk?
Natural cedar is safe to touch fabrics directly, including silk, wool and cashmere. It doesn’t leave residue or stain in normal use. The only thing to avoid is placing cedar that’s been treated with added oils or sprays directly on delicate or light-coloured fabric – plain untreated cedar like ours is fine.
Why do my wooden hangers smell like cedar?
If your hangers smell of cedar, they’re probably made from cedar wood (or have been stored near it). That lovely woody smell is the same natural oil that repels moths – a good sign.
Where to put cedar for the best protection
- Wardrobe rail: cedar hangers spaced along the rail
- On each hanger: cedar rings for knitwear, coats and suits
- Drawers and storage boxes: cedar balls, 4–6 per drawer
- Everything at once: a cedar bundle covers the whole wardrobe
The bottom line
Cedar is a natural, long-lasting and pleasant-smelling way to keep clothes moths away. Keep your wardrobe clean, sand your cedar every three months and your clothes will stay hole-free – no chemical mothballs needed.
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