Booklice in New Homes: Why They Appear

Booklice in the wardrobe indicate that humidity is too high inside or around the wardrobe. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Empty and inspect

1. Remove all items from the wardrobe — clothes, bedding, cardboard boxes, books, etc.
2. Check clothes for booklice or signs of mold; wash those affected in water above 60°C.
3. Check cardboard boxes and books for moisture; discard severely damp items; sun-dry salvageable ones.
4. Check the wardrobe back panel, bottom, and corners for mold, moisture, or peeling paint.

Step 2: Thorough cleaning

5. Vacuum all corners, shelf joints, and hinge gaps inside the wardrobe.
6. Wipe away mold dust with a dry cloth (do not use a damp cloth, which adds moisture).
7. Leave wardrobe doors open to ventilate and allow the interior to dry completely.

Step 3: Fix the moisture source

4. If the wardrobe is against an exterior wall, check for moisture penetration; waterproof if necessary.
5. If the wardrobe is adjacent to a bathroom, check for leaks through the partition wall.
6. Repair any leaks or moisture issues.

Step 4: Chemical control

After the wardrobe is completely dry (allow 2-3 days of ventilation):

4. Spray dinotefuran-containing household insecticide on joints, shelf edges, and back panel gaps.
5. Also spray the baseboard at the bottom of the wardrobe.
6. Wait for the spray to dry completely (about 1-2 hours).
7. Return clean clothes.

Step 5: Long-term prevention

5. Place desiccant bags or moisture absorbers in the wardrobe.
6. Store unworn clothes in sealed bags.
7. Regularly check the wardrobe interior; keep it dry and ventilated.
8. Do not place the wardrobe flush against the wall; leave a ventilation gap.