Storing Woolens for the Summer

Now that the trees are leafing out and flowers are beginning to bloom, we are shedding our winter woolens for lighter, cooler clothing. But before you run out for a hike or ball game, don't kick that wool sweater under the bed, thinking you will worry about it in the fall when it gets cold again.

Pests may use that sweater or other unprotected wool, alpaca, mohair, angora or animal hair product as a nursery to lay their eggs. The eggs hatch in a few weeks and the larvae graze on your clothing, blankets or other woolies, often doing irreparable damage. Stopping this destruction is simple, and now is the time to prepare.

The most important thing to do before storing any wool item is to be sure it is clean. Either wash it according to manufacturer's instructions or have it dry cleaned. Dirty wool is much more enticing to pests than clean. Besides, it is more convenient to have things ready to use in the fall when that first cold snap hits.

After they are nice and clean, wool items can be stored in a variety of ways. Pillowcases make great storage containers, since larvae won't eat through the cotton barrier. Plus, pillowcases and other types of cotton bags are readily available and easily made. This is my favored method of storage for everything from blankets and clothing to yarn and fleeces. And I store a lot of wool! Cedar chests are effective as well as decorative, but you can get just as much protection from a clean paper bag firmly closed with tape or staples. Plastic bags or containers are a good barrier, but they don't allow air circulation. Be sure your items are completely dry before storing them in plastic.

Scientific research shows many of the traditional fragrant herbal repellants do work. The scent confuses the insects, so they move on in search of a more compelling food source for their young. If you would like to use any of these scents as additional protection, you can use sachets containing herbs such as camphor basil, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, lavender, patchouli and many others. These sachets can be placed in containers with sweaters, blankets and socks or in your drawers and closets. Never use mothballs or crystals, because these have potential health hazards, especially for children and pets.

If you have tapestries, wool rugs or fiber art pieces, take them outside for a few hours in the sun and wind. Shake them gently to remove dust, and inspect them carefully for signs of insects or damage. Pest larvae like dark, undisturbed places, and they quickly fall off items exposed to fresh air and sunshine. As an added precaution, I use a mild insecticide that is approved for fabrics, such as one made by the Fuller Brush Company. Spray the front and back of tapestries and allow them to dry outside.

If the worst happens and you find eggs or larvae, kill them immediately. Use sprays containing pyrethrins or have the items dry cleaned. If the items are washable, soak them in soap and water for at least 12 hours to drown the eggs and larvae. Empty your infested drawers and closets, and vacuum to remove eggs or critters that might be hiding in the crevices.

Remember, it is much easier (and less disgusting) to thoroughly wash your woolens and store them properly to begin with. You'll save money too, because usually there is little hope of repairing insect damage after it occurs.

Kathy Wishnie of Belgrade, Montana, has been weaving since childhood and attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago Fiber and Weaving Department. She can be reached at info@MountainWeaver.com, and her colorful handspun, handwoven wool tapestires, blankets and accessories are available at http://www.mountainweaver.com/.
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