Look carefully before assuming the cause
Wear, pets, mechanical damage and insects can leave different kinds of changes. Inspect the front, reverse, edges and places that usually sit beneath furniture. Photograph the affected areas and any visible insect material before disturbing everything.
Tell us when you first noticed the change and whether it appears to be spreading. A photograph can help the initial conversation, but it does not always establish the cause. We may recommend further identification where the signs are unclear.
Check protected and undisturbed areas
Parts of a rug that are rarely moved or vacuumed can be easy to overlook. Lift accessible edges and inspect beneath nearby furniture, taking care not to damage a fragile rug or move heavy items unsafely. Look at other stored textiles where appropriate.
A rug treatment does not automatically deal with activity elsewhere in the room or home. If there is a wider infestation, a qualified pest professional may be needed alongside care for the rug itself.
Tell us before arranging collection
Mention suspected moth activity when requesting your quote so handling and assessment can be discussed. Give the rug’s material if known, dimensions and condition, and include photographs of the affected areas.
Do not bring or send a potentially affected rug to the workshop without an agreed arrangement. We need to understand the concern and advise on appropriate preparation and transport rather than discovering it during an unplanned drop-off.
Cleaning, treatment and repair are different
Cleaning can address suitable soil and debris; treatment addresses the assessed insect concern; repair deals with missing or weakened material. These are separate outcomes. A rug may need more than one, and not every service will be appropriate for its condition.
Our assessment considers suitable treatment options, which may include specialist freezing where appropriate. The method and practical arrangements are confirmed for the individual rug. We do not suggest that a brief spell in a household freezer is equivalent to an assessed professional process.
Be careful with home-applied chemicals
Do not apply an insecticide to a rug unless its label specifically permits that use and you can follow the instructions fully. Unsuited products can create residues or affect the material. Tell us about any sprays, powders or previous pest treatment.
Avoid combining products or assuming that a strong smell means the treatment is effective. If children or pets use the area, follow the relevant product and professional guidance rather than improvising.
Reduce neglected areas after the rug returns
Keep up a cleaning routine appropriate to the rug, including accessible edges and underneath nearby furniture. Rotate and inspect rugs periodically so new changes are noticed early. Before storage, make sure the rug is clean and dry and ask for suitable storage guidance.
No rug clean is a promise that insects can never return. Address the wider source where necessary and continue checking vulnerable textiles. Contact us with your postcode and rug details to discuss an assessment and confirmed collection arrangements.
Your questions, answered.
Will washing replace the missing pile?
No. Lost or damaged material needs separate assessment for repair; cleaning cannot regrow fibres.
Can you identify moth damage from one photo?
A photograph can help, but other causes can look similar. Inspection or pest identification may be required.
Do I need to treat the room too?
If activity extends beyond the rug, the wider source needs attention. A qualified pest professional can advise on that part of the problem.
Plan your rug clean
Explore our workshop process · Understand pricing · Find your collection area · Read more rug care advice