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The 7 Best Moth Repellents of 2024

Stop bothersome moths with these top repellents

Three moth traps we recommended on a shelf in a closet with clothes on either side.

The Spruce / Eric Brockob

Moths don't pose a direct threat to humans, but they can leave holes in clothing or prey on dry food in pantries. Clothes moths feed on fabrics like wool and cashmere, so you’re likely to find them in dressers, closets, and wardrobes. Pantry moths, on the other hand, infest food storage areas because they are attracted to dry foods. The best moth repellents will effectively repel moths or eliminate them entirely. 

"Prevention is the first step in reducing the entry of any insects into your home,” says Jim Fredericks, Ph.D., senior vice president of public affairs at the National Pest Management Association. “Repellants with strong scents [like cedar] convince insects to rethink taking up residence in your home."

There are a variety of moth repellents on the market. Most are designed to treat the location where your moth problem is occurring rather than the exact species. Therefore, a product intended for pantry moths won’t be effective for clothes moths, and vice versa. Natural products use fragrances to deter moths, while chemical repellents kill moths and their larvae, helping to eliminate active moth infestations. 

Some moth repellents, including those that contain pyrethrins and other pesticides, are not safe for use around food, children, or pets. As an alternative, you can choose an all-natural product to repel moths, such as cedar chips and lavender sachets. 

We spent hours researching the top moth repellents on the market, evaluating type, formulation, ease of use, and effectiveness. Whether you’re salvaging clothing items or dry pantry staples from these destructive pests, we’ll help you choose a moth repellent that treats your specific problem.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Household Essentials CEDAR FRESH Cedar Closet Variety Pack

Household Essentials CEDAR FRESH Cedar Closet Variety Pack

Amazon

What We Like
  • Effective, all-natural moth repellent

  • Pleasant cedar scent

  • Includes 96 pieces for a variety of uses

  • Can be refreshed with sandpaper

What We Don't Like
  • Not ideal for active infestations

  • Doesn’t kill moths

This assortment pack from Household Essentials earns our top spot because it is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of locations throughout the home. After two months of testing, we did not encounter a single moth, and we enjoyed the light, refreshing scent it left behind in our closets and drawers. 

All of the pieces are made from moth-repelling cedar, and although it doesn’t kill moths, it effectively keeps them at bay. For that reason, however, this product is not ideal for tackling an active moth infestation. 

Cedar has several other benefits that make it an excellent choice for pest control. Since the wood is absorbent, you use these pieces to eliminate any lingering odors in sneakers, gym bags, and more. Its absorbency also makes cedar ideal for long-term or seasonal storage

You can place any of the blocks, cubes, balls, or rings in bags or storage containers to prevent mildew or moisture from forming over time. In addition to being all-natural, each cedar piece is durable and reusable: When the cedar starts losing its scent, it can be revitalized with sandpaper to release more fragrance. 

This particular set consists of 96 pieces, but there are two smaller options available: a 56- or 71-piece set. Six hangers, 18 rings, six blocks, six sachets, 36 cubes, and 24 balls are included—more than enough to cover all of your clothes storage areas. Thanks to all the different shapes and sizes, you have the flexibility to place them almost anywhere that needs protection.

Type: Cedar pieces and sachets | Intended Use: Closets/dressers/storage | Scent: Yes | Food-safe: Not listed

Household Essentials CEDAR FRESH Cedar Closet sachet and hang ups on a wood surface

The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

What We Like
  • Kills moths and carpet beetles

  • Effective for up to 6 months

  • Ideal for long-term or seasonal storage

  • Treats up to 12.5 cubic feet

What We Don't Like
  • Strong odor

If you want to prevent months from destroying your favorite garments, the Enoz Para Moth Balls are a low-cost solution. These moth balls contain paradichlorobenzene, which releases a gas that kills moths and carpet beetles—as well as their eggs and larvae—over time. According to the manufacturer, they are most effective when used in sealed containers, making them a perfect choice for long-term or seasonal storage. 

One of the longest-lasting options in our roundup, these moth balls are effective for up to six months. They can treat up to 12.5 cubic feet, and they’re highly effective in smaller closets and attics. 

Keep in mind that this product can be harmful to both humans and animals if ingested or inhaled, so be sure to store it in a safe location. The scent is also very strong—a common complaint regarding moth balls that contain chemicals. 

To prevent the odor from escaping into occupied rooms, we recommend placing the moth balls in sealed containers such as chests, trunks, and garment bags. The moth balls come in individual cellophane pouches, which prevent the odor from clinging to your clothing and allow you to place them in multiple locations. 

Type: Mothballs | Intended Use: Closets/dressers/storage | Scent: Yes (chemical odor) | Food-safe: No

Best for Closets

MothPrevention Powerful Clothes Moth Traps for Closets

MothPrevention Powerful Clothes Moth Traps for Closets

Amazon

What We Like
  • Odor-free

  • Refillable

  • Multiple entry points for moths

  • Can be hung in a closet

What We Don't Like
  • Design isn’t very attractive or discreet

Though simple in design, these powerful traps get rid of moths that eat and damage clothing. Even though we didn't think we had a moth problem, we were surprised to see that the trap was able to capture some moths when we tested them at home. Featuring sheets coated with odorless pheromones, they are safe to use around children and pets. 

The trap, which is about the size of an envelope, includes several holes through which the moths can enter through. We found that the sticky sheet offered about three times the trapping surface area of similar products on the market. Additionally, we appreciated being able to see the progress thanks to the visible glue board. 

The traps are effective for up to three months, and replacement strips can be purchased to help you save on costs. Still, these traps are pricier than other natural options. The good news is that the manufacturer will issue a full refund within 90 days if you're not satisfied. 

To activate the trap, you only need to peel the back cover from the pheromone board. Then, you insert the board into the provided box, which is small enough to be placed just about anywhere—whether it’s a shelf, dresser drawer, or chest. 

For added convenience, these traps come with a hanger, so you can easily hang them in a closet if needed. When it comes to moth repellents, these traps certainly aren’t the most attractive or discreet option, but they’re a great pick to keep your closet moth-free.

Type: Traps | Intended Use: Closet/dresser | Scent: No | Food-safe: No

Best for Pantry

Dr. Killigan's Premium Pantry Moth Traps

Dr. Killigan's Premium Pantry Moth Traps

Amazon

What We Like
  • Highly effective against food moths

  • Prevent future eggs

  • No scent

  • Freestanding design for versatile placement

What We Don't Like
  • Only effective against meal moths

If moths are infiltrating your kitchen or pantry, Dr. Killigan's moth traps are a great way to eradicate them. The patented formula features double-potent pheromones and sticky glue to lure and capture these pesky creatures. These traps will eliminate the existing moth population and prevent future egg-laying. 

They are highly effective against a variety of food moths, including the Indian meal moth and the Mediterranean flour moth. These moths are attracted to dry foods like flour, cereal, and nuts. Keep in mind that these traps are not intended for clothing moths or gypsy moths. 

These pheromone traps are made from organic ingredients and free of pyrethrins, which means they’re safe to use around children, pets, and food. They are sold in packs of six, and each trap is effective for up to three months. 

To use, simply open, peel, and fold the traps into position. Thanks to their compact, freestanding design, they can be placed almost anywhere in your kitchen or pantry. Another perk of the traps is that they have no discernible scent to humans. 

Type: Trap | Intended Use: Pantry or kitchen | Scent: None | Food-safe: Yes

Best Spray

Reefer-Galler SLA Cedar Spray

Reefer-Galler SLA Cedar Scented Spray

Amazon

What We Like
  • Kill moths and other insects on contact

  • Multi-surface solution

  • Doesn’t stain surfaces or fabric

  • Cedar scent

What We Don't Like
  • Not safe for use around children or pets

  • May irritate skin

This powerful spray contains pyrethrins and other pesticides that effectively kill moths on contact. Aside from moths, it also eliminates other insects, including ants, cockroaches, bedbugs, and spiders. We put this spray to the test on a rug that had moths living on it. Housed in a 15-ounce aerosol can, this formula must be shaken before spraying on the affected area from 12 to 15 inches away. As soon as we applied the product, we could see that the moths had died.

This product doesn’t stain, which we found to be true when we applied it to our rug, so it can be used on a variety of surfaces, including closets, shelving, furniture, and rugs. Although it’s pricier than many of our other options, it controls a variety of pests, giving it a major advantage over the competition. Plus, the sprays come in packs of three or six, so your money goes a long way. 

It’s important to note that this spray contains pyrethrins, permethrin, and piperonyl butoxide and should not be used in areas where children and pets eat, sleep, or play. Keep in mind that this spray claims to have a cedar scent to it. However, we found that there is still a chemical scent. 

An application lasts for up to three months, and it’s strong enough to tackle an active infestation. Like any pesticide, it is harmful if inhaled or ingested and can cause skin irritation, so it may be a good idea to wear gloves when applying it. 

Type: Spray | Intended Use: Closet/carpet/upholstery | Scent: Cedar | Food-safe: No

Reefer-Galler SLA Cedar Scented Spray with lid removed on a rug

The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

Best Cedar

Cedar Sense Cedar Rings

Cedar Sense Cedar Rings

Walmart

What We Like
  • Absorbs moisture

  • Small size for versatile placement

  • Sandpaper included

What We Don't Like
  • May lose their scent quickly

  • Not ideal for larger infestations

Thanks to their compact size, these cedar rings can be placed almost anywhere you need protection from moths. For added convenience, they have a hole in the center and can easily slip onto a clothes hanger, making them an ideal choice for closets. 

While these pieces can lose their smell pretty quickly—typically within a month or so—this pack includes a piece of sandpaper, which you can use to revitalize the scent and increase the rings' longevity. 

In addition to deterring moths, cedar can also absorb moisture and eliminate odors. Like our best overall pick, the Household Essentials CEDAR FRESH Cedar Closet Variety Pack, you can put these rings in gym bags and shoes overnight to get rid of unwanted odors.

You can also place these chips in storage containers to prevent mildew or moisture from forming over time. The drawback to cedar is that it doesn't kill existing moths, so it is not very effective in treating large infestations. 

Type: Cedar pieces | Intended Use: Closet/dresser/storage | Scent: Yes | Food-safe: Not listed

Best Natural

Armour Shell Lavender and Cedar Bags

Armour Shell Lavender Sachet and Cedar Bags

Amazon

What We Like
  • Attractive design

  • All-natural method for deterring moths

  • Can be hung in a closet

What We Don't Like
  • Won’t treat an active infestation

  • Bags may leak

These sachet bags, which utilize dried lavender flowers and cedar chips, are an all-natural way to keep moths away from clothing. This set includes 20 sachets in total—10 containing aromatic lavender flowers and 10 with premium-quality cedar chips.

We like that these prefilled sachets keep your closet smelling fresh while deterring moths. The bags have a tie at the top, which can be easily attached to a clothing hanger. They can also be used in drawers, shelves, and cupboards.

If aesthetics are a priority, these sachets are a lot more attractive than sticky traps and glue boards. Like our best cedar pick, these bags don’t kill moths, but their strong smell keeps them at bay. For that reason, these repellents aren’t recommended for an active infestation, but they are ideal for deterring the occasional moth. 

Type: Sachets | Intended Use: Closet/dresser | Scent: Yes | Food-safe: Not listed

Final Verdict

The Household Essentials Cedar Fresh Closet is our top pick due to its versatility and an excellent assortment of moth-repelling cedar pieces. It includes hangers, clocks, cubes, balls, and sachets to protect all of your clothing and textiles. If moths are getting into your stored food, we recommend Dr. Killigan’s Premium Pantry Moth Traps, which eliminate active infestations.

Household Essentials CedarFresh Clothes Protector

 The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

What to Look for in Moth Repellent

Longevity

Most of the products on this list provide up to three months of protection against months—with the exception of moth balls—which can last as long as six months. “Moth balls, known for their longevity, are ideal for safeguarding items during extended periods of storage,” says Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning. “The naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene vapors released by moth balls create an environment unsuitable for moth larvae development, providing a durable solution for protecting valuable possessions.” For a long-term solution, consider Enoz Moth Balls (our best budget pick), which effectively kill moths and their eggs and larvae over an extended period of time.

Safety

Chemical-based products, such as sprays and traditional moth balls, can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. For that reason, you may want to avoid using them in a kitchen or pantry. To avoid skin irritation, you’ll want to make sure that chemical-based products don’t come in direct contact with clothing. It’s always a good idea to read the label and any warning instructions carefully so you can use the repellent safely and effectively. 

Some chemical repellents, particularly moth balls, are known for their pungent scent, which can be a turnoff for some users. For a chemical-free offering, consider Armour Shell Lavender Sachet and Cedar Bags, which use cedar shavings and lavender flowers to naturally deter moths. It’s important to note that some natural repellants (especially those that rely solely on scent) can deter moths, but they won’t kill them. For active infestations, a chemical-based product like the Reefer-Galler SLA Cedar Spray is likely a better solution.  

Application Method

You’ll find moth repellents in a variety of forms, including sticky traps, sprays, cedar blocks, and sachets. With the exception of sprays, most products can be placed wherever you are experiencing a moth problem.

“Sachets infused with natural repellents like lavender or cedar offer a versatile solution for various storage needs,” Toner notes. “Whether placed in drawers, closets or amidst stored linens, sachets provide a multifaceted approach to organization and protection.” If you’re looking to protect multiple areas in your home, the Household Essentials CEDAR FRESH Cedar Variety Pack offers an assortment of items–including sachets, cubes, blocks, and hangable hooks—allowing you to protect almost any indoor space. 

Some traps, like cedar blocks and sachets, are conveniently designed to be hung up. “Hanging moth repellents, especially those incorporating cedar, are excellent for wardrobes and closets,” Toners says. “The hanging format allows for easy repositioning, ensuring comprehensive protection for clothing and linens.” Our best for closets pick, MothPrevention Powerful Clothes Moth Traps, includes hangers, making them an ideal choice for keeping moths out of closets.

Moth Prevention Moth Traps

 The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Sage McHugh, a commerce writer who has been covering home products for The Spruce since 2019. Having lost one too many sweaters to moth holes, she knows the importance of keeping these pesky critters away from clothing and prefers all-natural repellents like cedar chips. When selecting the best moth repellents for this roundup, McHugh considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their type, formulation, ease of use, and effectiveness.

Our Experts:

Updated by
Mackenzie Dunn
Mackenzie is a writer and editor for The Spruce with expertise in the fashion, beauty, home, and lifestyle spaces.
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  1. Gervais, J.; Luukinen, B.; Buhl, K.; Stone, D. 2010. Paradichlorobenzene General Fact Sheet; National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University Extension Services. http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/PDBgen.html.

    1. Health Effects of MothballsNational Pesticide Information Center.