I’ve lost count of the number of wool jumpers I’ve rescued from forgotten corners of my wardrobe, only to find them ragged from moths. Over the years I’ve developed a simple, low-waste approach to protecting my knitwear that leans on natural materials I trust: cedar, lavender, and a few different sachet techniques. In this post I’ll walk you through how I make a moth-proof jumper chest, how I refresh and maintain it, and three easy sachet tutorials you can make in an afternoon — no fancy gear required.

Why cedar and lavender work (and why I prefer them)

I like solutions that are effective, gentle, and pleasant to live with. Cedar wood contains natural oils (cedrol and others) that deter moths without harsh chemicals. Lavender has long been used as a moth repellent too, and its scent is something I genuinely enjoy in a linen chest. Together they create a layered defence: cedar gives ongoing protection and structure; lavender adds a fragrant top-up and a user-friendly reminder to check things every season.

Important note: these natural repellents don’t kill moths instantly or replace good housekeeping — they discourage egg-laying and feeding. For severe infestations you will need to launder, freeze, or professionally treat garments first. My method is about prevention and maintaining a cosy, sustainable wardrobe.

How I choose a chest and prepare it

A good chest for jumpers should be dry, ventilated, and easy to open so you can inspect contents. I use a solid oak trunk I found at a charity shop, but a well-sealed wooden chest, a bamboo trunk, or even a deep dresser drawer works well. Avoid plastic containers long-term for natural fibres — they can trap humidity.

Before anything goes in, I always do a quick check and clean:

  • Vacuum the chest interior and corners (a brush attachment is perfect).
  • Wipe with a soft cloth and a little diluted white vinegar if the wood feels sticky; allow to dry completely.
  • Line the bottom with breathable linen or cotton — not plastic — to allow air circulation and protect the wood finish.

    • How I prepare jumpers for storage

    Proper storage starts with the garment. I never store jumpers dirty — food crumbs and body oils attract moths. Here’s my standard pre-storage routine:

  • Check labels — give machine-washable jumpers a gentle wash and dry flat according to instructions.
  • For wool or delicate jumpers I don’t want to wash, I use freezing: place the jumper in an airtight bag and freeze for 72 hours to kill any larvae or eggs.
  • Repair small holes or loose seams immediately so moths have nothing to chew into.
  • Fold jumpers carefully rather than hanging (hanging can stretch shoulders). Place tissue paper between folds for particularly delicate knits.

    • Where I put cedar

    I use several cedar forms to create layered protection:

  • Small cedar blocks or balls tucked among jumpers — these slowly off-gas the natural oils.
  • Cedar lining strips nailed (or glued) to the chest lid — great for larger trunks.
  • A solid cedar hanging bar if you store jumpers on short-term hangers.

    • When you buy cedar, choose untreated, kiln-dried cedar (commonly Western Red Cedar or Spanish cedar). Avoid cedar that’s been heavily varnished — the oils need to breathe. If the scent fades after a year, a light sanding of the cedar surface with fine sandpaper refreshes the oils beautifully.

    Simple sachet tutorial: sewn lavender sachet (beginner-friendly)

    This is my go-to project: quick, tactile, and perfect for using scrap fabric.

    MaterialsNotes
    100% cotton or linen scraps (10 x 10 cm)Natural fibres only
    Dried lavender buds (1–2 tbsp)Choose culinary-grade or organic where possible
    Needle and thread or sewing machineColour to match fabric

    Instructions:

  • Fold fabric right sides together to make a 10 x 5 cm rectangle.
  • Sew along two long sides and one short side, leaving one short side open. Trim corners and turn right-side out.
  • Fill with lavender buds (and optional few drops of lavender essential oil on a cotton pad inside for extra scent).
  • Sew the last side closed by hand with neat running stitch.

    • No-sew burlap sachet (quick and rustic)

    Perfect if you’re short on time or sewing skills. Burlap breathes well and gives a natural, farmhouse touch.

  • Cut a 15 x 15 cm burlap square.
  • Place 2 tbsp dried lavender in the centre (add a few cedar shavings if you have them).
  • Gather corners and tie tightly with twine. Add a small label if you like.

    • Knitted/crocheted sachet (for makers)

    I love this for using leftover yarn (preferably wool) — the fibre itself is an extra barrier. A simple 10 cm knitted square in garter stitch folded and seamed makes a cosy pouch. Fill with lavender and a cedar shaving, then seam and trim excess yarn. The knitted texture releases scent slowly and looks charming tucked among jumpers.

    How many sachets and where to position them

    General rule: one sachet per small drawer or one sachet every 15–20 cm in a trunk. I usually place:

  • One cedar block at the centre bottom of the chest.
  • One sachet on top of each stack of folded jumpers and one tucked under the lid.
  • A cedar bar or long strip along the lid edge where possible.

    • Seasonal refresh and maintenance

    I treat my jumper chest as a seasonal ritual. Every three months (and at the start and end of autumn/winter) I:

  • Open the chest, smell for any mustiness or strong moth activity.
  • Shake out jumpers and air them in daylight for a few hours — sunlight helps discourage moths and refreshes fibres. I avoid long direct sun that can fade colours.
  • Replace or lightly sand cedar surfaces if the aroma has dulled.
  • Refresh sachets: replace dried lavender yearly, and add a few drops of lavender oil to sachets in spring.

    • What to do if you spot moths or damage

    If you find holes or live larvae, don’t panic. My steps are:

  • Isolate affected items immediately.
  • Freeze the garment in an airtight bag for 72 hours or wash/dry clean depending on label instructions.
  • Vacuum the chest thoroughly, including cracks and corners, then wipe down. Dispose of vacuum bag outdoors.
  • Assess damage and mend when possible — visible repairs are part of a lived-in, sustainable home.

    • These methods are gentle, affordable, and fit the Take Root Design ethos: choose simple, natural materials and make small rituals of care. Protecting my jumpers this way has saved favourites and reduced the need for chemical repellents — and I love the calm scent of lavender when I open the chest each season.