The Life Cycle of a Moth

Contrary to popular belief, adult moths do not eat. During their larval period they acquire most of the nutrition necessary to carry them through their adult lives and some varieties supplement their stores of food by drinking nectar.

However, adult female moths’ primary function in their month-long lifespan is to seek out a suitable habitat and food source to lay their eggs. Their keen sense of smell helps them to locate areas of undisturbed wool or clothing that will sustain their larvae after the eggs have hatched. The moth larvae will then continue to eat until they have enough stores to allow them to pupate and undergo metamorphosis into their adult form.

They prefer dark spaces, and so the underside of your undisturbed oriental rug serves as a perfect nesting ground for these moths.

Signs of Moth Presence

• Flying Moths
• Webs
• Cocoons
• Larvae in the pile
• Sand-like particles in the pile
  

Signs of Moth Damage

• Bare spots in the pile
• Broken or loose pile
  

Protecting Against Moths

There are a number of simple and easy precautions that can be taken to protect your oriental rugs from moth damage:

• Vacuum regularly. Vacuuming all parts of the rug every three months will ensure breaking the cycle of the moth
• Rotate or move the rug from time to time. This serves the dual purpose of allowing for even wear to the rug.
• In time, dust may become embedded in the pile of your rug regardless of how frequently you vacuum. Every 2 years vacuum the back of the rug with an upright vacuum equipped with a beater bar (like grandma used to do with a sturdy stick!) in order to vibrate the rug, loosen embedded dirt, and further protect against infestation. Finally, vacuum the floor and face of your rug.

Moth Repellants

Moth balls can be of some use, but the effect on humans is unknown. Likewise cedar, juniper and lavender have been shown to be a short term repellent, but the effects wear off after a short period of time and none of these natural materials will kill larvae once hatched.

Storing Your Oriental Rug

The best way to protect your rug is to use it, but if you must store the rug follow these guidelines:

• Before storing your oriental rug have the rug professionally cleaned. This will remove and food or other stains that may result in infestation.
• Store in a dry area. Heat will not harm the rug, but moisture and humidity can. If you are certain that all moisture has been removed from the rug cover in plastic to protect from moisture and insects.
• Occasionally open and vacuum your stored rugs and inspect for any moth presence. Catching any infestations early on can eliminate the need for costly repairs.
  

Note on Overall Strength and Durability of Wool Carpets

With a minimal amount of care and maintenance your oriental rugs have the potential to last a lifetime (or more). With natural lanolin to protect against stains, the durability of wool and the strength of hand-tied knots we think you’ll soon agree that an oriental rug is one the best investments you can make in your home.