Why moths damage wool and jumpers
When you pull your knitwear out of storage, you might discover tiny, irregular holes or edge fraying. In Ireland, two moth species commonly target clothing: the common clothes moth and the case-bearing clothes moth. The larvae, attracted to keratin in natural fibres like wool and cashmere, feed on your jumpers, quietly weaving silk and fibre into a small protective case. While in the wild moths recycle animal remains, in our homes they become a wardrobe nuisance. Modern homes with central heating and well-insulated interiors provide a stable environment for multiple generations of clothes moths, especially if jumpers are stored away for long periods.
The good news is that you can prevent and repair damage with practical, low-cost steps. Understanding the moth lifecycle helps you act at the right time—before a few holes turn into larger repairs.
Immediate, at-home fixes for moth damage
First, assess the extent of the damage. Small holes on wool and cashmere can be repaired by hand using a darning needle and fine thread. The key is patience: multiple tiny stitches are better than a few large ones, and matching the thread color to the fabric preserves the garment’s look. If you’re dealing with ongoing moth risk, start by cleaning and storing clothing properly to reduce chances of future damage.
Simple prevention steps work as well: clean garments before they go into storage, store in airtight containers, and consider natural repellents such as cedar or lavender. Some people choose to freeze items to kill larvae, though another expert suggests a gentler, heat-based approach for wool: placing 100% wool or cashmere jumpers in a low-temperature oven for about 30 minutes can sterilize fibers without harming the fabric—just avoid plastics or polyester, which could melt.
Repair with care: turning mended knitwear into lasting keepsakes
Specialists like textile designer Kim O’Driscoll (Project Prolong, Dublin) have helped revive beloved pieces through visible or invisible repairs. All repairs are done by hand with a darning needle, with typical small cashmere holes needing dozens of stitches and chunky knits taking a shorter time. The ethos is simple: wool is warm, repairable, and biodegradable. O’Driscoll notes she has never met a wool garment she couldn’t repair.
Beyond the technical work, there’s a meaningful narrative to repair: a cardigan full of holes worn by someone who has passed away, or a cashmere hoodie cut during a medical emergency is transformed back into a treasured item. Repairing garments can preserve memories and extend a wardrobe’s life, aligning with sustainable fashion goals.
Prevention and mindful storage for the future
Prevention is easier than repair. Clean items before long storage periods, use breathable storage methods such as cotton totes, and avoid vacuum-sealing wool—it can crush shape and still trap moths. Regularly rotate and air out knitwear to disrupt breeding cycles, and consider professional or DIY mending as a valued skill rather than a stigmatized practice.
From mending to modern fashion: a sustainable twist
Historically, moth damage was to be avoided at all costs. Today, designers are celebrating wear and decay as a design language. Some brands experiment with intentional distress as a style choice, while others emphasize repair as a core value of sustainable fashion. For instance, niche labels have produced distressed but functional garments that retain warmth and longevity—even offering repair services to extend their life. This mindset shifts the focus from disposal to care, echoing the work of practitioners like O’Driscoll and the growing culture of repair in fashion.
