Bald Patches On Your Wool Carpet? Oh No!

Do you have a wool carpet that's developing bald or worn patches? Many homeowners are quick to assume these patches are due to heavy foot traffic or a poorly made carpet. But in fact, they have a much more sinister cause: carpet moths!

What are carpet moths?

You've probably heard how moths can attack wool blankets and clothing. Your grandmother may have kept her wool items in a cedar chest or used moth balls to fend them off. Carpet moths are similar to the moths that feed on wool clothing. They lay their eggs on the wool carpet, and the eggs hatch into larvae that feed on the wool itself. Over time, your carpet fibers go missing, though you may notice little shreds that look like wood or paper shreds left in their place. These shreds are actually the castings – or shells – left behind by the larvae when they turn into moths.

What can you do to get rid of carpet moths?

Start by vacuuming your carpet daily. This way, you will suck up any eggs are they are laid on the carpet before they have a chance to develop into the larvae that feed on your carpet. You should also have your carpet professionally shampooed. Request that the company use high-temperature steam cleaning, as the heat will help kill any lingering carpet moth larvae.

After having your carpet cleaned, scatter some moth balls along the edges of your room, especially in the corners. Keep vacuuming daily. After a few months, you will have broken the life cycle of the carpet moths, and they should be exterminated from your home.

How can you repair the bald patches?

Don't attempt to repair the bald patches until you've been vacuuming and using mothballs for a few months and are confident that the moths are gone. Then, contact the company where you purchased your carpet. If they have carpet of the same color and style on hand, they may be able to inconspicuously patch your carpet where the bald patches are. It won't be perfect, but it will look better than having holes in your carpet. In the meantime, consider rearranging your furniture to place items over the bald spots.

If you are noticing bald patches on your wool carpet, take action today. The longer you allow the moths to linger, the more damage they will do. Contact a cleaning company like Classic Home Care Inc for more advice or assistance.

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