What do I do if I suspect my rugs have moths?

First, isolate the rug you suspect has moths from all your other wool rugs (and wool items).  You want to minimize the possibility the moth infestation will spread to your other wool rugs or wool items.  Next, put the affected rug in a bag or airtight wrapping until the rug can be thoroughly cleaned.  Third, have your rug professionally cleaned as soon as possible.  You do not want to delay as each day that passes, moths are inflicting further damage on your rug.  Fourth, sweep then mop the floor under the rug with a combination of vinegar and water to ensure that all moth larvae are removed.  Lastly, if the infestation is severe, contact an exterminator to treat the home.  

What do moths look like?  How can I tell if my rug has moths?

An active moth infestation is characterized by white glue-like larvae that eat sections of wool from your rug.  Sometimes, they can be more easily recognized from the reverse side of a rug.  [insert pic]. In addition, when you lift the rug, black poppy seed like debris will be under the rug.  If you suspect that your rug has moths, we advise you to isolate the rug immediately and have it professionally cleaned as soon as possible.

Is there any way to prevent moths from damaging my rug?

There is no full-proof way to prevent moth damage, but there are many steps that one can take to greatly minimize the risk.  First, use your rugs.  Keeping them in storage is perhaps the riskiest thing one can do as storage places tend to be dark and poorly ventilated, both conditions in which moths thrive.  Second, regularly vacuum your rugs, including areas of your rugs that may be under sofas, beds, or tables.  Third, regularly inspect your rugs for damage.  A quick visual inspection can alert you to ongoing damage.  Lastly, professionally clean your rugs regularly.  We generally recommend professionally cleaning rugs every two years. 

Can moth damage be repaired?

In the vast majority of cases, even extreme moth damage can be repaired and/or restored.  Warp and weft can be rebuilt and pile can be reknotted in a hand knotted rug.  However, the more severe the moth damage is, the more time consuming and extensive the restoration needs to be.  As with most things, spotting damage early on is always best.