Moths are attracted to mohair or woollen paw/feet pads and, if not addressed, can cause significant damage. The presence of 'casings', typically about 1cm in length and 2-3mm in width, along with moth eggs that may resemble grains of sand on your Teddy, are indicative signs. The black grains unfortunately are 'moth poo'.
So, what's the best method to eliminate them?
Freezing an old bear is not advised. You might wonder why.
The backing material of a vintage or antique mohair bear consists of cotton, which over time becomes increasingly delicate due to dust accumulation and wear and tear.
Vintage and antique bear heads are often stuffed with wood wool.
The issue arises during the thawing process after freezing, when ice transforms into water. Given the already delicate state of the fabric, introducing excessive moisture is ill-advised. For some older bears, this could lead to further fabric degradation.
Wood wool is inherently absorbent and will soak up water like a sponge. Since it's tightly packed and unable to dry quickly, the trapped moisture has no escape route, leading to potential mould growth in the wood wool.
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1 - Pop either a hanging sachet OR a paper or two if a large bear - in a sealable plastic bag.
2 - Add your Teddy to the bag with the sachet or paper/s and seal for a little bit longer than recommended to allow the moth/egg/larvae cycle to fully die off.
3 - After quarantine, take out of the bag and give Teddy a good brush/comb to get rid of all of the casings and dead eggs that may be present (outside is best if possible) paying particular attention to the crevices and joints.
**TIP** Add one or two hanging sachets or papers beside your Mohair Teddies in the display cabinet, or on the bed amongst them.
They are also suitable for use in a drawer with your wool jumpers!
TOP TIP: With any remaining sachets or papers, place your now moth-free Teddy Bear next to one on a shelf or bed as a preventive measure.
Alternatively, you can place them on a bag of dried lavender or use cedar balls, as both serve as natural repellents.
Store your toys in an area that is airy and well-lit; moths favour the darkness and humidity often found in closets or drawers.
