Moth Damage?
Here's What to Know.
We don’t use moth sprays or chemicals—because prevention starts with proper rug care.
At Bob’s Oriental Rugs, we’ve seen firsthand what moths can do to a rug. Fine wool fibers get eaten away, fringe disappears, and bald patches appear out of nowhere. These aren’t cosmetic issues—they’re structural damage caused by larvae, not the adult moths you see flying around.
We do not use mothballs, sprays, or chemical protectors. Instead, we focus on what actually works: deep cleaning to remove larvae and eggs, and smart prevention strategies you can do at home or in storage.
What Causes Moth Damage in Rugs?
Moths are drawn to:
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Dirty wool fibers (especially those holding pet oils, food, or skin cells)
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Dark, undisturbed spaces
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Rugs that haven’t been moved or cleaned in years
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Humidity and low ventilation
Most of the damage is caused by larvae, not adult moths. Eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on the wool, cotton, and even silk in your rug’s foundation.
How We Help: Cleaning Is Key
Our deep cleaning process removes:
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Moth eggs and larvae hidden in the foundation
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Pet oils, food particles, and buildup that attract them
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Dust and grit that create ideal conditions for infestation
Cleaning your rug every 2–3 years is the most effective way to prevent moth activity and stop damage before it starts. Rugs that sit untouched for years are the most vulnerable.
How to Prevent Moths at Home
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Vacuum regularly, especially under furniture. Moths love undisturbed areas.
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Expose your rug to light and airflow. Roll it out fully a few times a year if it’s partially covered.
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Rotate rugs if they’re in low-traffic rooms. Keep fibers from sitting still too long.
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Check your rug’s surface and underside regularly. Look for thin spots, white grit (cocoons), or irregular pile.
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Keep humidity low. Use a dehumidifier in basements or closed rooms where rugs are kept.
If You’re Storing a Rug
Have it cleaned first
Even if your rug looks clean, it likely contains dust, pet oils, and skin cells that attract moths. Moths aren’t interested in clean wool—they’re looking for soiled, undisturbed material. A deep hand cleaning before storage removes the buildup that larvae feed on and greatly reduces the risk of infestation.
Roll, don’t fold
Folding creates permanent creases and stress points that can weaken the foundation over time. Always roll the rug tightly and evenly, starting from the bottom edge (with the pile facing inward). Tuck in fringe gently to protect it during storage.
Store in a cool, dry place
Ideal locations include closets, under a bed, or in a climate-controlled storage unit. Avoid basements, attics, or garages, where temperature swings and humidity create the perfect conditions for mold, mildew, and pests. If storing long-term, elevate the rug off the floor to avoid contact with concrete or wood.
Inspect every 4–6 months
Even in ideal storage conditions, rugs should be checked at least twice a year. Unroll the rug completely and look for signs of moth activity—such as small bald spots, fine white webbing, or powdery grit (larvae casings). Pay close attention to the back of the rug, the edges, and the fringe. A musty or sour odor is also a red flag that something may be wrong. Early detection makes a huge difference when it comes to stopping damage before it spreads.
Already Seeing Moth Damage?
Bring the rug in as soon as possible. We’ll inspect it, clean it thoroughly, and let you know if any repairs (like reweaving or patching) are needed. In many cases, damage can be contained and repaired before it spreads.
Worried About Moths? Don’t Wait.
Moths do their worst damage quietly. If you haven’t moved or cleaned your rug in several years, or you’re planning to store one soon, we strongly recommend a deep hand-cleaning first.
📞 Call or text us at 704-905-3200
📍 Drop-offs welcome Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM
We’ll help you protect your rug—without chemicals, gimmicks, or false promises.
