Hi Robert,

Thanks for reaching out with this question!

Pests like wax moths are attracted to the pollen and pupal casings from rearing brood, so unprotected comb from the brood nest can be susceptible to wax moth damage. Some beekeepers who have the luxury of extra freezer space store combs in the freezer to protect them. 

If you don't have freezer space to store brood combs, you can use Para-Moth to deter wax moths. The University of Minnesota Bee Lab's Pest & Disease Manual describes how to use it. Please note that Para-Moth is different from the moth balls people use to protect clothing; moth balls should not be used in beekeeping equipment.

If the combs were just used as honey supers (storing nectar and honey) and not for rearing brood, then they should not be very susceptible to wax moth damage. In my experience, it works well to stack the supers outdoors on a bottom board, close/block the entrance, and cover the stack. 

You can search previously answered questions at Ask Extension, however, I understand that the search functionality may make it difficult for you to find what you're looking for. You can always reach out to us through our Ask Extension form at https://pollinators.msu.edu/questions/.

Happy beekeeping!