What Kind of Moths Eat Carpets, Rugs and Upholstery?

When it comes to moth infestations, many people worry about the damage they can cause to soft furnishings. Moths eat carpets, rugs and upholstery, leaving unsightly holes and damage. But not all moths pose a threat to your home. There are specific species known for causing damage to your valuable items.

The species of moths that consume carpeting

In the UK, the most common species of moths that eat carpets, rugs and upholstery are the Common Clothes Moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Tinea pellionella). Commonly, moths eat clothes, but this is not their only source of food. These moths target natural fibres like wool and silk, making soft furnishings in your home especially vulnerable.

Adult moths don’t eat carpets themselves, but they lay eggs on fibres. Once the larvae hatch, they start feeding. These larvae can go unnoticed because they are small and avoid light. Transitioning between seasons, especially from spring to summer, creates the perfect environment for moth infestations. We always recommend inspecting your carpets and soft furnishings regularly, especially if stored in darker or unused rooms.

Why moths eat carpets and how they cause damage

Moths eat carpets because the larvae feed on natural fibres that contain keratin, a protein found in wool, silk and fur. This makes carpets, upholstery and even clothing highly attractive. Moth larvae thrive in dark, undisturbed areas. You may find them under heavy furniture or in unused rooms in your house. Commercial settings, such as furniture and rug warehouses, my also encounter moth problems.

Rugs and carpets with a high wool content are especially vulnerable. If you’ve noticed small holes appearing or if fibres seem loose, you may have an infestation. These moths don’t damage synthetic fibres, but mixed-fibre items are at risk. Once larvae begin feeding, the damage can spread quickly, creating patches of threadbare carpet. We often suggest acting swiftly once you spot the first signs to prevent larger infestations.

Moths eat carpets, but also target upholstered furniture, especially those made from natural materials like leather, cotton or wool. The damage often appears as small holes or threadbare patches on cushions, armchairs and sofas. If left untreated, this damage can spread requiring costly repairs or replacements.

If you store soft furnishings in dark places like attics or basements, check them regularly. Moth larvae prefer undisturbed dark areas where they can feed without interruption. We always advise thorough cleaning, vacuuming and inspection of carpets, rugs and upholstery, especially in areas that don’t get much traffic. If you need professional moth treatment, call us today. We use both heat and chemical treatments and will discuss the options with you.