Because the weather has jumped from summer to autumn, we’ve been pulling out the wool jumpers and trousers from retirement.  No Indian summer for us.  But what’s more, you may have noticed little holes in your autumn clothes. And that means one thing we label-loving chiconomistas all fear: clothes moths.

Now before you have visions of moths eating your Moschino, there are many ways you can moth proof your pretty designer pieces. Forget moth balls, we are talking about wallet-friendly, sweet-smelling moth repellents that’ll save you from the cost having to replace your clothes (and possibly your sanity). Because next on the hit list might be that silk jumpsuit.

Defend the Drawer: If you insist on leaving your clothes in the drawer, moth proof it by popping in some  Cedarwood Anti Moth Mini Drawer Sachets, six for £4.85.  Clothes moths loathe cedarwood. And because these sachets last for six months, you’ll be happy not to see moths or any holes for a while. Available both online and in store at John Lewis.

If you Love it, Bag it: Take your lovely labels and seal them in safety with an Anti-Moth Sweater Bag at John Lewis, six for £6.50, especially if you have cardigans or other clothes made of wool. Lined with the refreshing scent of lavendar (which is another moth repellent), your designer clothes will smell divine. Or to bag it on a budget, put your clothes in a Vacuum-Sealed Storage Bag from Poundland, £1 for one bag, and toss in a cedarwood sachet.

Close the Closet: Moths love dark spaces and your closet is the perfect place for those little buggers, loaded with designer delights to eat. Make sure you moth proof your wardrobe (i.e. take it off the menu) by hanging a Himalaya Lavendar Anti-Moth Hanging Sachet/Wool Protector from John Lewis, three for £3.50.

Let ‘em have it with the Lavendar: Last month, we did a post in our Spend Vs. Save page on oil burners.  Since clothes moths don’t like lavendar, you could put a few drops of moth-repelling lavendar oil from the Body Shop, £3.50, in your budget oil burner from Poundland, £1.  (You can get 100 tealights for £2 at John Lewis.)  Put one near the wardrobe or wherever you think the moths are coming from, a window or door perhaps. Send them packing and make your home smell sweet.

But if you think you might have a major moth problem, it might be worth it to get a professional to come in.

By Christina Caicedo