How to Prevent Moth Damage to Wool Rugs: Simple Daily Habits to Save Your Rug

Wool rugs are beautiful, durable, and long-lasting — but they’re also a favorite snack for moths. If unnoticed, moth larvae can cause irreversible damage, eating away at the wool pile and leaving behind bald patches.

The good news? Moth damage is 100% preventable with a few consistent habits.

✅ Why Do Moths Love Wool Rugs?

Moths aren’t interested in clean rugs. What attracts them is:

• Dirt and food particles lodged in the fibers

• Pet hair and skin flakes (keratin is a moth delicacy!)

• Dark, undisturbed areas (like under sofas or beds)

It’s the larvae — not the adult moths — that do the damage by feeding on protein fibers like wool, silk, and sometimes cotton.

🛡️ Daily & Weekly Prevention Tips

1. Vacuum Regularly — Especially Under Furniture

Moths thrive where light doesn’t reach. Move furniture every few weeks and vacuum underneath. Don’t forget:

• Edges and corners of the rug

• The back side of the rug once a month

2. Let the Rug Breathe

Natural airflow and sunlight help prevent infestations.

• Open curtains to let sun hit the rug

• Take small rugs outside for sun exposure a few times a year

3. Use Moth Repellents (Safely)

• Natural options: cedar blocks, lavender sachets

• Chemical repellents: use with caution and always away from pets and children

Place them in closets, under rugs, or near edges where moths might nest.

4. Clean Up Spills Immediately

Food or drink spills attract insects. Blot spills right away and avoid leaving residue.

🧼 Annual Deep Cleaning Is Essential

Even with great habits, dust and organic material builds up deep in the fibers over time. That’s why we recommend:✅ Professional rug washing every 12–18 months

At Expert Rug Cleaning, we hand-wash each rug using traditional techniques that remove embedded dust, pet hair, and hidden moth eggs — extending your rug’s life by decades