Freezing pieces due to moths.

[Joe Lawrence Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Joe Lawrence]

I received a fairly rare piece last week that had live moth larvae on it unfortunately. I opened the package in the garage which I always do and was disappointed finding 6-10 of the vile creatures. There is slight damage to the piece about the size of a 5 cent coin or a 10 cent euro coin. Luckily its hard to see and I’m guessing they haven’t been there long as there is no other damage.

I vacuumed the piece about a dozen times and used a high speed garden blower on it then vacuumed it again. I then used 1 part vinegar and 1 part water mixture on it, let it dry and redid the spray 3 times. For the record, the dye appears to be natural.

I then sealed the piece in an airtight bag and placed it in the freezer for one week with a bag of ice on it. Upon removing it, I didn’t see any critters but I am reluctant to introduce it to the house. I will of course vacuum it a few more times.

Are there any further recommendations or steps I can do other than taking it to the professionals?

[Joe Lawrence Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Joe Lawrence]

Well, decided to be cautious and take it in to the pros.

[Chuck Wagner Administrator Find all posts View Profile Close Chuck Wagner]

Joe

The freezer probably worked although I would have gone for more like a month. A bag with the piece and a handfull of mothballs should also do it but you have to let it go long enough for a couple hatching cycles to get them all.

Good luck
Chuck

[Steve Price Administrator Find all posts View Profile Close Steve Price]

I was introduced to a product called Sla (or Slay) by a dealer. It is said to kill moth larvae and eggs.

Steve Price

[Joe Lawrence Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Joe Lawrence]

Thank you Chuck and Steve for your tips.

[Guest Close Guest]

I spray insecticide, seal it in a plastic bag for one month, then take it our in the sun, brush it, inspect it and if it looks good, hang it outside (away from rain) for one month. Then I bring it in the house.