250 bags and a new phobia

[GingerStella]

So this might be a long one.

I started collect designer bags when I was 20. I started out with classic LV canvas, then leather- and last exotics.

I have over 250 bags, all exotic. I store them all in one room, good air and clean. All of them neatly in box or dustbag. I have OCD deluxe.

Half year ago I was doing the regular collection cleaning.
I found a carpet beetle larvae, and his shells.


THIS freaked me out. I have invested so much in this collection and the idea of them getting eaten is driving me insane. I have been vacuuming and cleaning for 2 weeks straight. Yesterday I found 2 more .

Now, there were no damage on either dust bags or bags. I dont even think they eat bags, but I am going crazy. Does anyone have experience with these? Why do they enjoy crawling inside my lanvin?

 

[allanrvj]

I have no experience in this but here's what Claude.ai has to say:

1. Don't panic: While carpet beetle larvae can damage natural fibers, they typically don't eat leather or exotic skins. However, they might be attracted to any natural fiber linings or dust bags.
2. Thorough inspection: Carefully examine each bag, especially in seams, corners, and any fabric parts. Look for signs of damage or more larvae.
3. Professional pest control: Consider hiring a professional pest control service specializing in textile pests. They can assess the situation and provide targeted treatment.
4. Preventive measures:
   • Use airtight storage containers for bags when possible.
   • Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to storage areas (insects dislike these scents).
   • Consider using mothballs or other insect repellents designed for textiles.
   • Maintain low humidity in the storage area.
5. Regular cleaning: Continue with regular vacuuming and cleaning, focusing on corners and hidden spots.
6. Freezing method: For infested items, placing them in a freezer for several days can kill larvae and eggs.
7. Natural predators: Consider using diatomaceous earth around storage areas. It's a natural, non-toxic substance that kills insects.
8. Monitor: Set up sticky traps to monitor for ongoing beetle activity.
9. Consult experts: Reach out to professional conservators or luxury bag specialists for advice on protecting exotic leather collections.
10. Insurance: If not already done, consider insuring the collection against potential damage.

Remember, while carpet beetle larvae can be concerning, they're a common household pest and manageable with proper care and prevention. The collection's value justifies taking thorough precautions.

 

[880]

I’m so sorry this happened to you. Agree with @allanrvj especially with the recommendation to contact a professional (some specialize in nontoxic forms of insect control)

I have always been told that RTW and bags need to breath so I would not store in airtight containers. My mom spends a lot of time in Manila and Singapore, and she’s been told not to store in dust bags (humidity and the need for routine inspection or observation perhaps). And also, not to keep boxes or shopping bags (as cardboard and paper can attract pests)

Perhaps get the professional to opine as to the best way to clean dust bags? Whether to first freeze, then dry clean or use another method. . . Finally, not to cause alarm, but if your RTW, carpets or upholstered furniture are in proximity, perhaps have the professional also inspect and give you an all clear there. Simply for peace of mind.

ETA: items should ideally be stored with space in between, not touching one another, out of direct sun light or behind glass that is UV protected.

 

[papertiger]

Agreeing with @880
Air-tight storage for bags can bring even more problems as a leather/exotic contains moisture (and needs moisture). Sealing a container will create a damp micro-culture because the leather will 'breath' and will create condensation over time. Too damp and the leather (inc exotics) will grow mould and toughen. Reg leather, you could just brush away the bloom and feed but it's more difficult with exotics.

Also be careful with dehumidifiers that you can't control optimally. Too dry is also very bad for leather (and exotics).

RH (relative humidity) should be between 40-65.

I would also to put your exotics in the freezer. Occasionally, on a ridiculously hot day(s) I may put fur in the freezer, but never a bag.

@880 : The reason they advise people not to store their exotics in dust bags in very humid countries is because of the shocking quality of dust bags that are often polyester, microfibre, or other poly-blend. She could use white or natural 100% cotton pillow cases to no ill effect if she wanted to.

 

[880]

Agreeing with @880
Air-tight storage for bags can bring even more problems as a leather/exotic contains moisture (and needs moisture). Sealing a container will create a damp micro-culture because the leather will 'breath' and will create condensation over time. Too damp and the leather (inc exotics) will grow mould and toughen. Reg leather, you could just brush away the bloom and feed but it's more difficult with exotics.

Also be careful with dehumidifiers that you can't control optimally. Too dry is also very bad for leather (and exotics).

RH (relative humidity) should be between 40-65.

I would also to put your exotics in the freezer. Occasionally, on a ridiculously hot day(s) I may put fur in the freezer, but never a bag.

@880 : The reason they advise people not to store their exotics in dust bags in very humid countries is because of the shocking quality of dust bags that are often polyester, microfibre, or other poly-blend. She could use white or natural 100% cotton pillow cases to no ill effect if she wanted to.

Thank you for that info! Good to know. Though I won’t tell my mom; if I switch horses in mid stream, she is likely to just think dust bags are okay again lol

ETA: somehow I also think that regular or at least rotating use of ones bags also helps. They can be aired out bc they are in use and also inspected. Good luck !

Am tagging @ExoticsOnly and @TraceySH in case they have tips

 

[papertiger]

Agreeing with @880
Air-tight storage for bags can bring even more problems as a leather/exotic contains moisture (and needs moisture). Sealing a container will create a damp micro-culture because the leather will 'breath' and will create condensation over time. Too damp and the leather (inc exotics) will grow mould and toughen. Reg leather, you could just brush away the bloom and feed but it's more difficult with exotics.

Also be careful with dehumidifiers that you can't control optimally. Too dry is also very bad for leather (and exotics).

RH (relative humidity) should be between 40-65.

I would also to put your exotics in the freezer. Occasionally, on a ridiculously hot day(s) I may put fur in the freezer, but never a bag.

@880 : The reason they advise people not to store their exotics in dust bags in very humid countries is because of the shocking quality of dust bags that are often polyester, microfibre, or other poly-blend. She could use white or natural 100% cotton pillow cases to no ill effect if she wanted to.

Sorry, that should read, I would personally NOT recommend putting exotics (or any leather) in the freezer.

 

[papertiger]

Thank you for that info! Good to know. Though I won’t tell my mom; if I switch horses in mid stream, she is likely to just think dust bags are okay again lol

ETA: somehow I also think that regular or at least rotating use of ones bags also helps. They can be aired out bc they are in use and also inspected. Good luck !

Am tagging @ExoticsOnly and @TraceySH in case they have tips

Agreed, using bags actually helps. They were not designed to be stored for months, even years, on end.

 

[A bottle of Red]

Agreeing with @880
Air-tight storage for bags can bring even more problems as a leather/exotic contains moisture (and needs moisture). Sealing a container will create a damp micro-culture because the leather will 'breath' and will create condensation over time. Too damp and the leather (inc exotics) will grow mould and toughen. Reg leather, you could just brush away the bloom and feed but it's more difficult with exotics.

Also be careful with dehumidifiers that you can't control optimally. Too dry is also very bad for leather (and exotics).

RH (relative humidity) should be between 40-65.

I would also to put your exotics in the freezer. Occasionally, on a ridiculously hot day(s) I may put fur in the freezer, but never a bag.

@880 : The reason they advise people not to store their exotics in dust bags in very humid countries is because of the shocking quality of dust bags that are often polyester, microfibre, or other poly-blend. She could use white or natural 100% cotton pillow cases to no ill effect if she wanted to.

Great now I need a new freezer just for my furs 😆

 

[A bottle of Red]

So this might be a long one.

I started collect designer bags when I was 20. I started out with classic LV canvas, then leather- and last exotics.

I have over 250 bags, all exotic. I store them all in one room, good air and clean. All of them neatly in box or dustbag. I have OCD deluxe.

Half year ago I was doing the regular collection cleaning.
I found a carpet beetle larvae, and his shells.


THIS freaked me out. I have invested so much in this collection and the idea of them getting eaten is driving me insane. I have been vacuuming and cleaning for 2 weeks straight. Yesterday I found 2 more .

Now, there were no damage on either dust bags or bags. I dont even think they eat bags, but I am going crazy. Does anyone have experience with these? Why do they enjoy crawling inside my lanvin?

Are they in your bags too or just the dust bags?
If it's just the dust bags maybe they can be cleaned or at worst thrown away.
If they're in your actual bags then definitely call a professional

 

[GingerStella]

Thank you for all the information. I do store them in closets, or boxes. In their dust bags. I live in sweden so the air here is not humid. I have one room for them, for example my gucci 1973 in lizard bought 2012 is still in pristine condition. You still smell the lovely scent of new leather (which is addictive!)

I am worried how these larvaes even get in, and the problem is everytime I pick one bag I don't enjoy their beauty anymore - only checking for larvaes which is getting redicilous...

 

[A bottle of Red]

It sounds super stressful

 

[jellyv]

Two issues here, beetles and mental health. Get with a professional pest control business to check out the issue and how to prevent it. Control your anxiety in order to live more peacefully, in the way that works best for you (including therapy). Perhaps there's a hoarding issue, too, from these details.

Good luck.

 

[GingerStella]

Two issues here, beetles and mental health. Get with a professional pest control business to check out the issue and how to prevent it. Control your anxiety in order to live more peacefully, in the way that works best for you (including therapy). Perhaps there's a hoarding issue, too, from these details.

Good luck.

Thank you. I feel like a lunatic even posting this thread.
I am angry at myself because this phobia has no logic. But some months ago it just got worse and I am just sick of it.

I have collected for 12 years, and the logic side of me is telling me that if they wanted to feast on chanel, they would have done it already.

Although, posting this thread has helped me. Sometimes you just need to talk to others about it.
I actually feel much calmer since I posted. Just let it all out lol.

 

[saligator]

If you are near a university, why not contact the entolomolgy department and ask to speak to an entomologist about beetles? They might be fascinated from a research perspective and also be able to help you figure out a strategy.

 

[GingerStella]

If you are near a university, why not contact the entolomolgy department and ask to speak to an entomologist about beetles? They might be fascinated from a research perspective and also be able to help you figure out a strategy.

I have bought cedar and cleaned all bags and dust bags, also read ALOT about them. Get to know your enemy, haha! My conclusion is that since there are no holes, not 50 they simply got lost. Larvae eats hair, feathers, all organic. Treated leather should not be tasty.