Moth Repellent for a Rug

Repellents protect a rug from moth damage.

The larvae of clothes moths feed on a variety of organic materials, including silk and wool. They can make their home in a rug and slowly work on destroying it. Regular vacuuming can remove moth eggs and larvae. Some chemicals can also help repel moths.

Manufacturer Mothproofing

Some rug manufacturers chemically treat their products to protect them from insects. This process, known as mothproofing, leaves no odor and provides permanent protection. Consumers can't access these chemicals, but they can choose to purchase rugs labeled "mothproof" or "moth resistant."

Drycleaner Mothproofing

Professional dry cleaners can apply mothproofing solutions to the rug to prevent future infestations. Dry cleaning can also kill any eggs and larvae in the rug and remove perspiration odors that attract moths.

Insecticides

Homeowners can purchase moth insecticides. Spraying an insecticide that contains pyrethrum, allethrin, chlorpyrifor or permethrin as the active ingredient kills the moths on the treated rug. Storing the rug in a tight-fitting container with moth balls or flakes will also kill moths.

References

• New Mexico State University: Preventing Damage from Clothes Moths and Carpet Beetles
• University of Kentucky: Clothes Moths