Carpet Moths vs Carpet Beetles: Spot the Difference & Save Your Wool
Finding mysterious holes in wool carpets or knitwear? In the Three Counties, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire, the culprits are usually either carpet moths or carpet beetles. The pests are different, but the damage looks similar. This guide shows you how to tell them apart, stop the damage quickly, and how Malvern Pest Control treats textile pests for lasting results.
Quick Visual ID: Moth or Beetle?
Use these fast checks to identify the problem:
• Carpet moths (adult): small, beige/golden, narrow wings; flutter close to floors and dark wardrobes.
• Carpet beetles (adult): small, oval beetles; variegated brown/cream ‘speckled’ pattern; often seen on window sills.
• Moth larvae: creamy caterpillars with dark head; silky webbing and cases near damage.
• Carpet beetle larvae (‘woolly bears’): bristly, cigar-shaped; shed striped skins near skirting/under furniture.
Why Traps Alone Don’t Solve It
• Adults are only a small part of the population—most damage is by larvae hidden in carpet edges and wardrobes.
• Larvae thrive where lint, hair and keratin collect (under sofas, along skirting, under wardrobes).
• DIY aerosols miss hidden zones and can stain fabrics.
Our Professional Treatment for Textile Pests
We tailor the approach to species and property layout:
• Detailed inspection and monitoring pads to confirm species and hotspots.
• Targeted application of professional insecticides to carpet edges, underlay margins and wardrobe bases.
• Void treatments for floorboards and stair treads where needed.
• Advice on deep cleaning, fabric isolation, and storage to prevent re‑infestation.
24‑Hour Action Plan (Before We Arrive)
• Vacuum thoroughly: along skirting, under heavy furniture, wardrobe floors; dispose of the bag outside immediately.
• Launder vulnerable garments (follow care labels) and isolate valuable wool items in sealed containers.
• Reduce clutter in wardrobes; shake out and check for webbing or shed larval skins.
• Avoid DIY sprays on treatment day to keep professional applications effective.
Prevention That Works
• Seasonal wardrobe rotation: clean before storage; use sealed garment bags for wool/silk.
• Regular ‘edge vacuum’ routine; move furniture periodically to deny larvae quiet zones.
• Keep humidity down and fix draught-proofing that traps lint along edges.
FAQs
• Will pheromone moth traps cure the problem?
They help monitoring and reduce adult males, but larvae still cause damage. Professional treatment targets the larvae.
• Can you treat without lifting carpets?
Usually yes—we target edges and under-furniture margins. Severe cases may need limited lifting for access.
• Is it safe for children and pets?
We use targeted treatments and advise re‑entry times on site. Follow our preparation and aftercare guidance.
• How long to see results?
Most homes see significant reduction within 2–4 weeks; we may schedule a follow‑up to ensure all life stages are controlled.
Book a Textile Pest Survey Today
Protect your carpets and clothing. Contact Malvern Pest Control to book a clothes moth or carpet beetle survey and treatment across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Gloucestershire.