Clothing bugs are fabric-eating bugs typically found outdoors. They venture indoors because they are attracted to a food source or they hitch a ride in on items made of animal fibers. These insects will feed on, and damage, both fabric and paper. You may not see them but you will see the holes they leave behind.

Several insects are known to feed on fabric, and the best way to prevent infestation is to be prepared. Get advice from your local Nashville exterminator on what to look for in your retail store.

Common Fabric Pests

The top two most common fabric pests are carpet beetles and clothes moths. While clothes moths feed only on animal fibers, carpet beetles do not (they feed on fabrics). Both bugs leave behind similar damage, which is why carpet beetles may be mistaken for clothes moths.

Clothes Moths

• Prefer fur, wool, silk, feathers, leather, and felt.
• Usually stay away from cotton and synthetic fabrics unless they have been blended with wool or have been soiled with food and body oils.
• Beige in color, with narrow wings and small hairs.

Carpet Beetles

• Feed on carpet, wood, fur, feathers, felt, silk, skins, and leather.
• Only eat synthetic materials that have been blended with wool or that are dirty with oils or food.
• Round or oval, and small in size.

Other Bugs That Eat Clothes

Cockroaches, crickets, termites, and silverfish can also feed on fabrics.

Why Care About Fabric Pests?

You likely have a lot of clothing and fabrics if you own a retail store. Fabric pests can inflict a lot of damage to rugs, upholstery, taxidermy, bedding, and clothing. Once they start to feed on a product, it becomes infested and contaminated, resulting in significant financial loss for your company.

Commercial Pest Control for Nashville, TN

Protect your retail store by having our Nashville exterminators on standby. To book an inspection, contact us at 615-502-2855.