What are Fabric Pests?
Fabric pests are insects that damage natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, and cotton. The most common fabric pests in Lexington, KY, are carpet beetles and clothes moths. These pests can cause significant damage to clothing, upholstery, and stored fabrics if left unchecked.
Common Fabric Pests in Lexington: Identification & Control
1. Carpet Beetles (Anthrenus spp., Attagenus spp.)
Identification:
- Size: 1/16 to 1/8 inch long
- Color: Varied—black, brown, or mottled with white, yellow, or orange scales
- Key Feature: Larvae are fuzzy, brownish, and bristled
Behavior & Habitat:
Carpet beetles are probably the most common fabric pest we see in Lexington. They are often introduced into homes through open windows, second-hand clothing, or infested fabrics. Pet owners are especially likely to see them, as shed pet hair and dander provide an additional food source for carpet beetle larvae. These pests thrive in homes, often making people deal with fabric pests in Lexington. They are found in areas where pet hair accumulates, such as carpets, upholstered furniture, and along baseboards.
Carpet beetle larvae feed on natural fibers, lint, and dead insects. They are often found in closets, under furniture, and along baseboards. Adults are attracted to light and may be seen on window sills.
How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles:
- Regular vacuuming to remove larvae and eggs
- Store clothing and fabrics in sealed containers
- Dry clean or launder infested fabrics
2. Clothes Moths (Tineola bisselliella, Tinea pellionella)
Identification:
- Size: 1/4 to 1/2 inch long
- Color: Pale gold or buff-colored wings
- Key Feature: Larvae spin silk webbing as they feed
Behavior & Habitat:
Although we see them less often in Lexington, these fabric pests are another insect known for damaging rugs & other materials made of natural based fibers. Unlike other moths, clothes moths avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas like closets, drawers, and storage boxes. In Lexington, their larvae cause the most damage by feeding on wool, fur, and other animal-based fibers.
How to Get Rid of Clothes Moths:
- Use pheromone traps to monitor infestations
- Store woolens and furs in airtight containers
- Freeze infested fabrics for 48 hours to kill larvae
Fabric Pests in Lexington: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do fabric pests enter my home?
A: They often come in through open windows, infested second-hand clothing, or stored fabric items. In Lexington, it’s essential to keep an eye out for these fabric pests to prevent an infestation.
Q: What are the signs of a fabric pest infestation?
A: Holes in clothing, thinning fabric, shed larval skins, and adult moths or beetles near textiles.
Q: Can DIY treatments get rid of fabric pests permanently?
A: Regular cleaning and proper storage help, but severe infestations often require professional pest control when dealing with fabric pests in Lexington.
Effective Fabric Pest Control in Lexington
Fabric pests can be difficult to eliminate due to their hidden feeding habits and ability to spread throughout a home. At Berner Pest Solutions, we offer Top Dog Pest Prevention Service, providing quarterly treatments with fabric pests included as a covered pest to ensure your home is pest-free year-round.
➡ Dealing with fabric pests? Contact Berner Pest Solutions for a free inspection today!