If you own a wool rug in your Norfolk area home, chances are you’ve heard of wool moths and the potential damage they can cause to your precious rug. At Duke Brothers Oriental Rug Cleaning, we’ve seen time and again how these little creatures can destroy important heirlooms and investments within a short time frame. With that in mind, let’s learn a bit about these creatures and how to prevent damage to your valuable rugs, including our tried-and-true moth treatment.

The Hidden Threat to Your Wool Rugs

Moths may seem harmless, but there are two species that can give you quite the headache. That’s because the webbing and casemaking moths can quickly cause significant damage to wool rugs. Their appetite is so voracious that from the moment the wool is sheared from the sheep, the wool undergoes an immediate treatment for moth prevention. This step is essential; without it, entire batches of wool wouldn’t stand a chance against these moths. Even with this treatment, over time, the protection fades. This is especially true after the rug is washed.

Surprisingly, it’s not technically the moths that cause the damage: It’s the larvae. The cycle begins when moths reach your untreated wool rug, laying eggs that soon hatch into the larvae. These larvae then feast on the wool fibers, causing irreparable damage.

Spotting the Signs of Wool Moths

Since moth treatments traditionally last for a decade or until the rug is washed, you’ll want to regularly inspect your rug’s hidden areas for early detection and prevention. Identifying the problem early on prevents the larvae from causing extensive damage to your beloved rugs.

Moth damage isn’t always immediately visible. Adult moths prefer to lay their eggs in undisturbed, dark areas of carpets and rugs. Look under your rugs and in less trafficked areas for any signs of larvae or eggs. These resemble tiny, creamy white specks that stick to the rug fibers.

Another obvious sign of moths are the small adult moths themselves often found near your rugs. They’re typically gold or silver colored. If left unchecked, you’ll notice balding spots or thinning areas on your rugs or find fine, sand-like debris, which are droppings from the larvae. There’s no time to lose if you come across any of these signs. Contact a professional before more damage is done.

Moth Treatment and Prevention

Prevention is the best cure when it comes to dealing with moths. At Duke Brothers Oriental Rug Cleaning, we’ve tailored our rug moth treatment to stop these pests in their tracks effectively. Our process involves applying a non-toxic solution to your rugs. Once dried, this solution ensures that your rug remains unappetizing to moth larvae without posing any risk to humans or pets. It works on area rugs and wall-to-wall wool carpets, safeguarding them against future moth damage.

We’re committed to preserving your rugs, whether they’re Oriental, Moroccan, or a wide range of other rug types. We offer comprehensive rug care solutions, including our specialized moth treatment, rug cleaning service, rug repairs, and more.

Preserving your precious rugs from the damage of wool moths requires vigilance, knowledge, and the right partner in rug care. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re in Norfolk or the surrounding area, contact Duke Brothers Oriental Rug Cleaning at (757) 780-9073 or request a free quote online so your rugs can receive the protection they deserve.