Insect infestation
Insect pests are becoming an increasing problem and are causing damage to rugs and carpets that are costly to repair. With climatic changes creating the perfect atmospheric conditions for insects to breed, along with the withdrawal of many insect proofing agents due to their carcinogenic properties, we have seen a considerable increase in the amount of rugs brought in to us over the last few years containing insect infestations.
The most common insect species in the UK are Clothes moths and Carpet beetles.
When and where they are found?
Carpet beetles and moths fly indoors readily in the spring and summer months to lay eggs. Moths prefer little disturbed, dark warm conditions such as carpets, under furniture, the back of rugs and stored textiles. The female moth will lay eggs on wool, fur, feathers, skins or soiled silk.
Bird's nests and dead animals in attics are ideal breeding ground for insects, so attics and disused chimneys should be checked regularly and any nests found disposed of. Insects like to feed on soiled areas of textiles.
How do I identify them?
Moth:
The larva resembles a small yellow/white maggot. It will leave a trail of grazed textile with fragments of excreta (frass). The cocoons it spins resemble silk like sheets or tunnels. This looks like a slug has left a trail across the textile. Adults are small dull fawn moths about 5-7mm long.
