Deterioration of carpets yarns may occur if they become infested by textile-eating
insects like clothes moths, carpet beetles, silverfish and termites. Many
of these digest protein-based fibers AND they might attack even non-protein-based
synthetic fibers if they contain protein substances like food stains,
blood, urine, vomit, perspiration etc. Silverfish and firebrats eat carbohydrates-based
glues while termite consume cellulosic material present in the backings
and yarns.
Treatment
The best treatment for insect attack on carpets is prevention. The carpet
must be kept clean of stains and spills that may attract insects and soils
that may hide them. Professional treatments are available for curing insect
infestation.