Cases of moth infestations have doubled over the past 5 years. Luckily, moths are not known to transmit any diseases but they can still cause a considerable amount of damage. It is widely believed that moths eat through fabrics and clothes but this belief is inaccurate.

The damage is actually caused by the larvae that feed on keratin, a protein that is present in fabrics.

Carpet moths are one of the most destructive fabric pests found in London properties, causing damage to wool carpets, rugs, and upholstered flooring. Unlike other pests, carpet moth larvae often remain hidden deep within fibres and along carpet edges, making infestations difficult to identify early.

Professional carpet moth treatment targets active larvae, breeding areas, and hidden infestation zones using specialist methods designed to reduce moth activity and prevent further damage to flooring and furnishings.

We are BPCA (British Pest Control Association) members and TrustMark certified, a government-endorsed scheme.

Moth infestations are especially common in London flats, converted buildings, and older period properties where carpets, insulation, and stored fabrics provide ideal conditions for breeding. Warm indoor temperatures and reduced ventilation can also increase moth activity throughout the year.

In densely populated London housing, infestations may spread gradually between rooms and adjoining areas, particularly in shared accommodation or multi-level properties where fabrics and furnishings are closely positioned.

Furnishings and fabrics are at risk from these common pests due to the fact that they can be tricky to prevent. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting a moth infestation.

1. Block the moths’ access to your property in the first instance. Fly screens are helpful as is drawing your curtains at nightime

2. Keep all clothing clean as moths tend to be attracted to soiled or dirty clothes. Refresh clothes that you do not tend to wear very often. Wash items at highest possible temperatures and ensure you do not damage items! You should always read labels.

3. Alternatvely, deep freezing any infested items at -18c will kill eggs (3 days is recommended).

4. Vacuum hidden areas such as underneath beds as regular vacuuming can help remove any eggs before they hatch.

5. Ensure any textile materials you plan to hold for a while are in sealed bags as this prevents the moths laying eggs. This is due to the fact that moth larvae eat things such as: carpets, clothing, bedding, upholstery, dried foods, textile materials, furniture, natural fibres like: cotton, silk, wool, hair, fur, feathers and synthetic fibres if mixed with natural fibres.

6. Moths can even feed on dust, ventilation and ducting. These areas should be cleaned appropriately and regularly. When a food source isn’t available, the larvae aren’t picky; they will chomp through most things.

7. Check for signs of moths and inspect clothes thoroughly, paying great attention to the creases and crevices. Make sure that you also check under the label.

8. Ensure all clothing is clean and store appropriately in vacuum bags or airtight boxes for optimum results.

9. Check your wardrobes regularly and keep them clean by vaccuming. Shake clothes often as moths don’t like to be disturbed.

10. Use moth traps. These traps can help you monitor the current situation and prevent moths mating.

11. Use natural remedies to repel moths. There are various essential oils and herbs that deter moths such as: lavender, bay leaves, mint, rosemary, cloves, thyme, cedar, peppercorns, eucalyptus oil and ginseng. There are also ready mixed solutions available that are specifically for clothes moths.

12. Check less obvious areas as an infestation can occur in places that we often cant see, such as old birds’ nests or dead birds in open chimneys. This is common in older properties and provide good food sources for the larvae to progress.