Carpet Moths – A Hidden Problem in Local Homes

As a local pest controller working in Peterborough, Stamford, Bourne, The Deepings and the surrounding rural areas, one pest that often goes unnoticed until it’s caused real damage is the carpet moth. Unlike mice or wasps, which make their presence known pretty quickly, carpet moths work quietly in the background – and before you realise it, you could be dealing with threadbare patches on your carpets or rugs.

What are Carpet Moths?

Carpet moths, also known as case-bearing clothes moths, are small insects that thrive in dark, undisturbed areas of the home. They don’t eat the carpet themselves – it’s actually the larvae that cause the damage. These tiny caterpillars feed on natural fibres such as wool, silk, and fur, which is why you’ll usually spot damage in 100% wool carpets or rugs.

Synthetic carpets are less at risk, although blends with natural fibres can still be affected.

Signs of a Carpet Moth Infestation

When visiting homes across the local area, I often hear people say, “I thought it was just wear and tear.” Unfortunately, that’s exactly how carpet moth damage looks. Here are the key signs to watch for:

• Bald patches in carpets or rugs – especially in corners, under furniture, or along skirting boards.

• Silken cases or webbing – the larvae spin small cases that look like grains of rice.

• Tiny moths in the home – adults are usually beige or buff-coloured and stay close to the ground.

• Loose carpet fibres – when you hoover, you may notice more wool pulling up than normal.

  
  

Why Are Carpet Moths Becoming More Common?

In my experience, cases of carpet moth infestations have become more frequent in recent years. There are a few reasons for this:

• Central heating and insulation – warmer homes create the perfect environment.

• Less frequent carpet cleaning – moths thrive in undisturbed areas where dust, hair, and food particles collect.

• Natural fibres – high-quality wool carpets and rugs, while beautiful, are exactly what carpet moth larvae love.

  
  

How to Deal with Carpet Moths

Once carpet moths get a hold in your home, they can be very difficult to eliminate without professional treatment. Over-the-counter sprays may kill adult moths but usually don’t deal with the larvae or eggs hidden deep in the fibres.

As a professional pest controller, my approach is thorough:

1. Inspection – identifying the extent of the problem and areas affected.

2. Targeted treatment – using professional-grade insecticides safe for use in domestic environments.

3. Advice on prevention – helping you reduce the risk of them coming back.

   
   

Preventing Carpet Moths

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few simple steps local homeowners can take:

• Regular vacuuming – especially under furniture, along edges, and in darker corners.

• Steam cleaning – hot cleaning methods kill larvae and eggs.

• Store wool items properly – if you have rugs or blankets stored away, keep them in airtight containers.

• Act quickly – if you notice damage, don’t wait to see if it gets worse.

  
  

Local Carpet Moth Control

If you think you might have a carpet moth problem, it’s always worth getting a professional opinion before the damage spreads further. At MB Pest Control, I offer local, reliable, and discreet services to help homeowners and businesses in Peterborough, Stamford, Bourne, The Deepings and the surrounding villages tackle carpet moth infestations.

I know how important your home is, and nothing is worse than seeing expensive carpets or rugs ruined by pests. With the right treatment and advice, we can get rid of the problem and help prevent it from returning.

📞 For advice, surveys, or treatment, call me today on 07912 665 290 or email info@mb-pestcontrol.co.uk