Advice
Protecting Wardrobes and Carpets From Moths
Clothes moth caterpillars feed on wool, fur and other natural fibres, so regular checks, clean storage and tidy habits go a long way to protecting your belongings.
Read the guide →We identify which type you have, find where the larvae are feeding and treat that spot, with advice you can follow afterwards.
From older terraces to newer estates
Older Newton Abbot terraces have loft spaces, suspended floors and chimney breasts where fabric and dust collect. Newer estates tend to be warmer and more draught-free, which suits moths just as well. Neither kind of home is more at risk by itself. What matters is how much natural fibre there is and how often it is moved.
Shops, offices and light industrial units around the town have their own issues. Stock rooms with wool, upholstery or dry food can hold moths for a long time before anyone notices. If you run premises, a quick look at the corners of the stock room is a good habit.
How we find the source
We talk through what you have seen in Newton Abbot, then check wardrobes, drawers, carpet edges, under sofas and the loft. We also look in the kitchen if pantry moths are suspected. Larvae are often found along skirting lines and in the folds of stored fabric.
Our treatment is targeted at the infested areas, and we explain the practical steps: hot washing, freezing small items, vacuuming and emptying the cleaner outside, and sealed storage. Pheromone traps are a simple way to tell if the moths are still around, and we are happy to discuss a return visit if they are.
TQ12 and neighbouring towns
We cover Newton Abbot throughout the TQ12 postcode area, including homes, flats, shops and commercial premises. We also cover Teignmouth and Shaldon, as well as the farmland villages around the town. If you are unsure whether the damage is moths, tell us what you are seeing and we will help you work out the next step.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between clothes moths and pantry moths?
Clothes moths are small, buff coloured and avoid light. Their larvae eat wool, fur and silk. Pantry moths are usually larger with two-tone wings, and their larvae feed on dry food and spin webbing in packets. The treatment differs, so identifying them matters.
Should I get rid of old wool rugs if I find moth damage?
Not always. Light damage can be treated, cleaned and kept. We check the underside and edges to see how far it has gone. A valuable rug may suit professional cleaning, while a badly eaten one may not be worth saving.
Do I need to empty every wardrobe in my house?
Usually only the affected ones and those next to them, but it is worth checking all. We inspect and tell you where the larvae are, so you are not unpacking rooms that are clear. Anything stored near the infested area should be looked at.