Skip the Chemical Mothballs – These $6 Cedar Blocks Naturally Protect Bedding in Storage All Season Long

They're a non-toxic alternative to mothballs

A maximalist bedroom. A double bed with colorful throw cushions on it. Two wooden nightstands with matching black lams either side. A framed photo of two people sitting down on the wall behind.
(Image credit: Angel O'Donnell)

Though temperatures don't show any sign of dipping just yet, cooler fall nights are fast approaching. So, while it's unlikely that you'll be reaching for the thermostat anytime soon, your attention may be turning to transforming your sleep space for the colder months.

Once you do switch your duvet or comforter for something a little more lofty, the last thing you'll want to find next summer is your summer bedding musty and moth-eaten.

These Cedar Hanging Fragrance Blocks, available at Walmart, provide natural protection to prevent moths, musty odors, and a build-up of mold-causing moisture.

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While getting rid of moths is difficult, preventing them in the first place, before you spot any signs you have moths in your home, is far simpler. And with the Cedar Hanging Fragrance Blocks, available at Walmart, it's easier than ever.

The eight-piece cedar block set includes four solid cedar blocks and four hanging blocks for versatile use − perfect for protecting the clothes in your closet and your bedding, whether stored in boxes, under your bed, or in a chest of drawers.

As they're crafted from naturally aromatic cedarwood, they offer a safe and chemical-free method to protect clothing from mold, moisture, odors, and moths, and are safe to use around both children and pets.

Once the scent dwindles and fades, each block can also be easily restored with light sanding, helping to reduce waste and be more sustainable at home.

A large wooden linen closet pictured in a painted hallway with dark wood flooring, a large patterned rug, a wooden chair with dark green upholstering, and a landscape gallery wall.

The handy blocks can also be placed or hung alongside your summer bedding in a linen closet.

(Image credit: Future / JONATHAN GOOCH)

If you're currently in the process of making your home less toxic, these cedar blocks are a non-toxic mothball swap, too. Therefore, you won't be left needing to get rid of the smell of mothballs come spring and summer next year.

'I buy this set of cedar blocks for my closets every spring when the weather is warmer, and my winter clothes need protection from moths,' says verified reviewer Dolores. 'The cedar scent is pleasant and not overpowering like moth balls. I highly recommend them!'

Another, SarahJane, assures that they 'smell so good,' adding, 'I've been using cedar in my closets since I was a kid and my grandpa would cut big hunks to put in our closets. He knew that cedar would draw out moisture and keep any smells at bay.

'These cedar planks are cut smoothly and fit nicely in my drawers. The hanging ones are unobtrusive while providing the same benefits. Love them!'

What to Shop

For more solutions to keep your warm-weather bedding smelling fresh and moth-free next spring, I've rounded up a selection of top-rated pest-repellent and storage favorites to shop below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.


It's not just your summer bedding you need to think about come fall − our pro-organizer tips for storing summer clothes away make the transition seamless.

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Ottilie Blackhall
Sleep Editor

Ottilie joined Homes & Gardens in 2024 as the News Writer on Solved, after finishing a Master's in Magazine Journalism at City, University of London. Now, as the Sleep Editor, she spends her days producing content on all things sleep – from mattresses and sheets to protectors and pillows, all of which she tests in her own home. She also has particular expertise in home fragrance, covering everything from candles to reed diffusers, and frequently attends showrooms, including Vispring and Frette, and events hosted by the likes of Diptyque, Jo Malone, and Malin+Goetz.

Previously, she has written for Livingetc and Motorsport Magazine, and also has a Master's degree in English Literature and History of Art from the University of Edinburgh.