Saturday, April 2, 2011

Live Moth Larva, cute but dangerous

The elusive wool eating moth larva are shy little guys and it is hard to see them at work, but I have found them damaging a wool area rug. This rug was rolled up in a room that was used regularly and everyday dust and dirt made it a perfect home for moths.


They are hard to see up close with the camera because the largest one was no more that 1/4 of an inch long. There were more moth larva on this 3x5 foot rug, but as soon as I tried to get a closer look they disappeared into the fibers. These little guys were not that old, a few days at the most. They had not eaten enough wool yet to make any serious damage, but it wouldn't have taken much longer for them to do damage.

When you are not using your rugs get them cleaned before storing them, even if you are leaving them rolled up in a spare room. Moths don't care which room you put them in or if it is only for a month. They want a food supply for their larva to eat when they hatch.

After you get your rug cleaned if it is not wrapped properly for storage the rug can still become victim of moths. If your rug can get dust and dirt on it from the air it can make a good home for moths eventually. NEVER WRAP AREA RUGS IN PLASTIC FOR STORAGE! Plastic traps in moisture which causes many other problems to your rug whether it is wool or synthetic. It is best to use Tyvek, this is what they use to wrap houses in as a moisture barrier. Tyvek is breathable, but doesn't let moisture in making it ideal for storing area rugs in.

If you suspect your rugs have a moth issue call Luv-A-Rug a 250-590-6210/1-800-886-2802 or bring your rugs to 445 Beta St, off Alpha St.

Thanks for reading, RugloverMary, protecting your rugs from moths.

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