Area & Oriental Rug, Carpet & Upholstery, Tile & Grout Cleaning — Serving Santa Cruz, Santa Clara & Monterey Counties
831-423-5235

Wondering About Moth Damage on Your Rug?

Expert Rug Cleaners serving Santa Cruz and surrounding areas since 1947

Cleaning Tips
Identify & prevent moth damage before it spreads

Spot it early. Stop it for good.

Moth damage on rugs can be frustrating — and costly. Clothes moths are drawn to natural fibers like wool and silk, laying eggs that hatch into larvae which feed on the fibers. They often start in undisturbed, dark areas under furniture or along edges.

Common signs to look for:

  • Irregular holes and thinning patches
  • Fine webbing on the face or back of the rug
  • Tiny, sand-like particles (larval droppings)
Good habit: Lift and inspect edges and the underside of rugs in low-traffic areas every month or two — especially beneath furniture.

Prevention that works

Keep the environment hostile to moths and you'll protect your investment:

  • Regular inspections: Check for holes, webbing, or thinning — especially in quiet corners.
  • Consistent cleaning: Vacuum the face and the back of the rug, plus the floor beneath.
  • Professional care: Schedule periodic in-plant cleaning to remove eggs and larvae that vacuums miss.
  • Light & rotation: Rotate rugs and let light in — moths prefer dark, still areas.
  • Natural deterrents: Cedar or lavender in storage spaces can help (refresh as scent fades).
  • Proper storage: Clean rugs before storage; use moth-proof bags/containers in dry spaces.
  • Act fast: If you spot activity, address it immediately to limit fiber loss.

We can help with both moth removal & cleaning

Many companies require you to exterminate moths before service and won't hold rugs that show activity. Santa Cruz Rug, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners can assist with both moth removal and in-plant cleaning to get your rug safely back in rotation.

What to do now
  1. Take clear photos of the affected areas (front & back).
  2. Email them to us.
  3. We'll assess and guide next steps.
Ready to schedule?

Pickup & delivery available across greater Santa Cruz, or save with drop-off at our rug spa.

Call (831) 423-5235

Notice: We offer pick up & delivery, or you can save with a scheduled drop off and pick up at our rug spa.

If it's cleanable, Santa Cruz Rug Cleaners can clean it!