If you own natural fibre clothing, moths are simply something you need to plan for. It's not a flaw in alpaca wool, it's a feature of any genuine natural fibre, and it's manageable with a few sensible habits.
Why Moths Are Drawn to Alpaca Wool
Clothes moths aren't actually after the fibre itself. They're drawn to the natural proteins left behind from wear, sweat, skin oils, food residue. This is why moth damage is more common on worn, unwashed garments than on clean ones stored properly.
Always Wash Before Storing
This is the single most effective step. Never put alpaca knitwear away for the season unwashed. A piece that's clean has far less to attract moths in the first place.
Choose Breathable Storage
Store alpaca knitwear in a breathable cotton bag or a drawer, not sealed plastic. Moths thrive in dark, undisturbed spaces, so it helps to check stored items every so often rather than leaving them untouched for months at a time.
Use Natural Deterrents
Cedar wood blocks or rings, and dried lavender, are both effective natural deterrents. Neither kills moths, but both make the environment less appealing to them. Refresh cedar by lightly sanding it every few months, as the scent fades over time.
Avoid Harsh Chemical Mothballs
Traditional mothballs are effective, but they're also strong-smelling and not something we'd recommend for natural fibres you want close to your skin. Cedar and lavender do the job more gently.
Check Regularly
Even with precautions in place, it's worth taking stored knitwear out every month or two, giving it a shake, and checking for any small holes or larvae casings. Catching damage early means it's far easier to manage.
If You Do Find Damage
A small hole from moth damage doesn't mean the piece is ruined. Isolate it from other garments straightaway, wash it, and freeze it for 48 hours to kill off any remaining eggs or larvae. Small holes can often be repaired by an invisible mender or careful hand stitching.
Why This Matters More with Quality Pieces
Mass-produced synthetic clothing doesn't attract moths in the same way, which says more about the fibre than the precaution. Alpaca wool is worth protecting precisely because it's worth keeping.
For wider care advice, read our full guide on caring for your alpaca knitwear here