All you need for this hack are some jumbo chalk sticks, which can be found in many retail stores, but for $3.25 at Kmart, you can get a pack of 20.
In addition to the chalk, you will need some essential oils.
As Birges states on the text in her IG reel, "Put a few drops of an essential oil on a piece of jumbo chalk and place in your wardrobe cupboards or drawers." This will not only keep your wardrobe smelling fresh and lovely, but it can also deter common pests from destroying your clothes and linens.
The only contingency is that the essential oil you choose will determine which pest you are deterring. Birges explains that,
"Clove oil – Prevents mould! The chalk absorbs moisture, while the clove oil is known to kill mould spores," Birges said.
"Lavender oil – Gets rid of moths and sliver fish.
"Peppermint oil – Leaves your drawers smelling fresh and discourages spiders, mice and other creepy crawlies."
After many followers questioned whether you could use more than one essential oil on a chalk stick, Anita Birges recommended to only use one oil per chalk. This is because chalk isn't just a carrier for the oil itself. Because it is a natural moisture absorber, chalk can draw in any water or humidity within enclosed spaces to prevent mould production.
Chalk, while it doesn't stain, is known to make quite a mess with the residue it can leave on clothing. Birges here suggests to leave your chalk stick on the top of the wardrobe or, if in a dresser, down the side of a drawer.
And for areas of the house apart from your wardrobe that need a little help, using baking soda also works wonders. Similar to chalk, it is a natural absorber, so putting a few drops of clove oil and placing in the kitchen cupboards will reduce mould production.
If musty smells are your main problem, a drop of vanilla essence on your baking soda or chalk will leave your closed up areas smelling fresh!
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