How to Avoid Costly Rug Repair Due to Moth Damage
As I wrote a few entries ago, one of the most common reasons my clients send me their rugs for rug repair or rug restoration is because of tiny moth larvae that love nothing more than to devour the tasty woolen knots of your valued rugs. Here are pictures to illustrate areas of rugs eaten by moth larvae - notice how the moths concentrate their eating to discrete areas, and sometimes, even discrete colors. Also, notice how the cotton warp and weft are left intact - moths aren't interested in eating cotton - they only have a taste for your woolen knots. While there is no way to completely safeguard again moth damage to your rugs or kilims, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. This includes (1) never to store soiled or dirty rugs; always have your rugs cleaned before putting them away in storage; (2) never store your rugs in plastic bags or in dark and humid locations; always store them in ventilated areas (ie, no dark closet); and (3) always give your rugs the chance to "breathe" - so if you have a rug under some big heavy furniture for most of the time, every once in a while, let the rug air out and check for moth damage. Taking these precautions can help you avoid costly rug repairs and some stressful discoveries. If you suspect that your rug or kilim has been damaged or is being damaged by moths, separate the rug or kilim in question from your other rugs, kilims, or other woolen products; open it completely in a dry clean place where it can be exposed to cross-ventilation and lots of sun; and send it immediately to a professional rug cleaner. --