Clothing moths that thrive on wardrobes full of cashmere, wool, fur and other fabrics made from animal hair are a nuisance and can cause permanent damage. Traditionally, sprays and mothballs have been used to rid clothing of moths. Today, however, there are plenty of ways to protect your clothes without using potentially harmful chemicals. These tips will help you get rid of existing moths and help moth-proof your closet for the future.

Cleanliness is the first -" and best -" line of defense. Dirty clothes often attract moths because the dirt and stains provide a source of food. Dry cleaning will eliminate moth eggs, larvae and adults.

Keep your closet and drawers clean. First, complete a deep cleaning vacuum of the closet floor, the bottoms and tops of the shelves and even the ceiling. Be sure to get into every corner. This can remove eggs and larvae that are not hiding in clothing. Then, vacuum and clean weekly to keep moths away.

Take precautions when storing seasonal clothing. Clean all garments before packing them for storage. Put them in dry, airtight containers or clothing bags. When storing woolens it's best to use re-sealable plastic bags or plastic boxes. Before you store any valuable garments, check with the experts at DELIA'S Cleaners to see if they require heirlooming or for advice on specific fabrics.

If you do discover moths, consider using natural products like cedar, rosemary, lavender or other herbs instead of chemicals. But first, do your homework to be sure you know the safest most effective way to use them.   It's best to learn about the pros and cons of all the various moth-fighting products on the market before you decide. Finally, be sure that whatever solution you choose will eliminate the larvae. These are what feed on your clothing.   If you aren't sure, ask us for guidance.

Remember, nothing discourages moths more than keeping your clothing and storage areas clean.