The Pantry Staple You Should Actually Keep in Your Closet (It Smells Amazing!)

I’m always on the hunt for smart, easy ways to make my home smell good. And now that it’s officially spring, I’m in full fresh scent mode — and I just discovered a hack that’s perfect for making my entire home smell great. Not just that, but it’s also totally natural and deters pests. Plus, it’s hiding in your pantry!

After watching this Instagram Reel from creator Jackie Milne, I can’t see the humble bay leaf (dried or fresh) the same. I was shocked to learn how versatile the herb really is! While I’ve only ever kept it in my pantry, it’s clear I need to be using it all over my home. 

Milne shows three distinct ways to use bay leaves all over: to preserve the color of your clothes in the wash (with baking soda), to put in stacks of clothing and linens or dry goods to keep pests away, and as a natural deodorizer. 

While I know bay leaves have a powerful, pungent pest-deterring scent (which I happen to love), I never realized how smart it is to use them outside of the kitchen. I’ll place one in my flour or rice container to keep grain weevils and other bugs away, but where they really belong is in my closet. Whether your home is prone to moths, silverfish, or even insects like ants, roaches, or flies, it’s time to break out the bay leaves where the pests can do the most damage.

In the video, Milne tucks one bay leaf into each of her folded winter sweaters before placing them stacked in their storage container. You could follow her lead and fold them into your bulkier winter clothes (like sweaters, which are famously loved by moths), tuck them into stacked linens or towels, or even put them in your dresser between pants or shirts. Another idea? Add bay leaves to your jacket pockets hanging in your closet to keep bugs away while ensuring you smell fresh the next time you wear it. 

Although using bay leaves as a pest-repellent is my favorite hack, I’ll be following the others, too — using them in the laundry, fridge, shoes, and bathroom to keep my space smelling herbal and light.

If you don’t already have some bay leaves in your spice rack, you can pick them up at your local grocery store or market. You can also order some from Amazon to get them shipped directly to your door. Your pantry, closet, clothes, and wallet will thank you!