Carpet moths can be a real problem sometimes, causing damage to carpets, rugs, and other expensive materials that contain fibres like wool or silk. Luckily, most organic methods can safely and naturally help you get rid of these problems.
Although the size of carpet moths is not that big, its smaller species consume detritus materials which contain a protein called keratin, normally found in animal-based fibres.
This kind of moth is also common around the world, so if you notice such a moth on your carpet or rug, you should get rid of it right away.
What are Carpet Moths?
To kill carpet moths effectively, it’s important to have some knowledge about it. Many people are unaware of carpet moths and do not know what they are getting rid of. We will give you a brief introduction to carpet moths.
Carpet moths come from the family of Tineidae, also known as Trichophaga Tapetzella. Any kind of carpet moth can be found all over the world, including Europe, South America, North America, and in all climates. Whether it’s normal carpets or stair carpets, it’s possible for carpet moths to appear anywhere. Despite the small size, carpet moths can cause damage in a home if you don’t get rid of them right away.
How to Get Rid of Carpet Moths
If you notice carpet broth in your home and want to get rid of it immediately, there are different ways to treat these moths. Even if you have not eliminated carpet moths before, the following treatments will help you get it done easily.
1. Insecticide Sprays
It is recommended by professionals that using insecticide spray is safe for humans and pets, so you can use it to get rid of carpet broths. These sprays come with an extra lifespan and should be applied with great care for the protection of those who are in the house.
Remember that insecticides may take a few rounds to treat the carpet moth, but when it removes the moths, the result is 100% effective. If you are unsure which spray to use, you can always contact the moth control experts for advice.
2. Heat and Steam Treatment
By using industrial heaters, this heat and seam treatment also works great in removing carpet moths. The industrial heaters help raise the temperature of the infested area. When getting the heat and steam treatment done, the professional workers closely monitor each and everything in the house to keep the safe environment.
If you notice carpet moths in an open area, like living room or kitchen, then this treatment is not the right option. However, in rooms, heat and steam is the most preferred treatment to get rid of moths.
3. Use Vinegar
An easier way to treat carpet moths is to mix vinegar with water, spray the mixture on the infected area and see the carpet moths vanishing in no time. The acidic nature of vinegar is so strong that moths can not withstand it for too long.
Other than carpets, you can also use this vinegar solution to get rid of moths from floors, drawers, cupboards or counters. You can also spray it on different fabrics, excluding silk because vinegar can damage this fabric.
4. Carpet Moth Traps
Using carpet moth traps helps reduce the growth of carpet moths. Getting the right carpet moth trap is extremely important as it can stop them from laying eggs on carpets. By using carpet moth traps, you can also reduce the chances of any damage to the home interior or clothes.
On colder days, depending on the humidity conditions, carpet moths can live for up to 3 years and may start eating your home textiles. However, on warmer days, carpet moths grow quickly in about a month. In both situations, it is better to get rid of carpet moths quickly or reduce the chances of their growth by using carpet moth traps.
5. Prevention Methods
Instead of attempting various treatments to remove carpet moths, it is also suggested that you always keep your home neat and tidy if you do not want your guests to return with disappointment. Regular vacuuming and washing bed sheets often can help prevent carpet moths.
Another method to prevent carpet moths is Lavender, a natural insecticide. The terpene found in lavender is especially used to dissuade moths from growing in your home. You can use lavender-scented bags or lavender oil in drawers, cabinets, or wardrobes to keep the moths away.
Pro Tip: Natural Home Remedies to Kill Carpet Moths
Even though the above-mentioned treatments would work greatly in eliminating carpet moths from your home, it’s still better to have some extra solutions which can be done with natural materials at home.
– Mint
One of the best home remedies to get rid of carpet moths is to use sachets of mint or cotton balls dipped in peppermint oil and place them over the infected area in the house. Once the smell of the mint starts to fade away, replace it with the new ones.
– Cedarwood
Fortunately, carpet moths can not withstand the smell of cedarwood, so simply use a block of wood or a few cedar chips in the areas where you have noticed the carpet moths. In a few hours, it will become a barrier and kill the carpet moths.
– Lemongrass
In the Journal of Cultural Heritage, a study was published, stating that if you mix wool with lemongrass, there is an 80% chance that carpet moths will vanish. In case you have potted lemongrass plants at home or lemongrass essential oil at home, simply place it on the carpeted floor or other infected areas.
Faqs
How long do carpet moths last?
The average lifespan of adult carpet moths is about 6 months or hardly a year. However, smaller carpet moths can last for up to 3 years.
How do I get rid of moths in my wool rug?
The best way to get rid of moths in the wool rug is to use the most effective vacuum cleaner and use it regularly.
Does carpet cleaning help remove the moths?
Typically, carpet cleaning helps reduce the chances of the growth of moths.
Can baking soda kill carpet moths?
If you mix baking soda with vinegar, it will not only get rid of carpet moths permanently but also remove the unwanted stains on your rug or carpet.
