How to Save My Embroidery From Bugs

Clean the storage area thoroughly. Whether you are preparing an area to store embroidered items in or are dealing with an established infestation, cleaning the area affected by the bugs is the essential first step. Vacuum the floor thoroughly. Dust all of the walls. If the area has hardwood or ceramic tile, use an anti-bacterial floor cleaning solution and a mop to thoroughly clean the area.

Ensure that the embroidered items have been carefully laundered and cleaned. If the embroidery hangs on a wall or is displayed in the home, wash the item in a delicate solution of slightly warm water and a small amount of detergent every four to six months. Allow the item to dry completely before returning to its place of display. For embroidery on chairs or furniture, vacuum on a weekly basis to remove excess dirt.

Prepare embroidered items for storage. Invest in acid-free and air-tight storage boxes, which will hold your embroidered items without affecting their color or texture. These boxes will also keep moths and carpet beetles from reaching the embroidered items. Fold the embroidered items delicately and place in the storage container. Air out the items every couple of months by removing from the container and allowing to air for a couple of hours before replacing in the storage container.

Use insect repellent as a last resort. If cleaning and air-tight storage do not keep bugs away from your embroidered works, use a moth or insect repellent. Do not place directly on the fabric. Apply to a sheet of material or hang in a nylon stocking. Place the prepared repellent in an area above the stored embroidery items, as the repellent will fall over the storage boxes. According to New Mexico State University, avoid using repellent on plastic items.