How to Protect Your Carpet When Storing It

Handmade carpets are valuable pieces of art—and if they are not stored properly, they can easily get damaged by moths, bugs, or heavy furniture. Whether you are keeping your carpet away for a few months or longer, following the right steps can save you from costly repairs.

In this guide, we will cover three essential tips to protect your carpet during storage:

  1. Using mothballs the right way

  2. Keeping bugs away

  3. Avoiding damage from heavy furniture

1. Protect Your Carpet with Mothballs

When carpets are stored for a long time—especially wool and hand-knotted rugs—they can become a target for moths. Moth larvae feed on wool fibers and can create small holes that eventually spread into large damaged areas.

How mothballs help:

  • They release vapors that repel moths and prevent eggs from hatching.

  • They keep fibers safe when carpets are rolled and stored.

How to use mothballs safely:

  • Roll your carpet tightly.

  • Place mothballs in small breathable pouches.

  • Insert the pouches between layers as shown in the image.

  • Store in an airtight bag or clean, dry storage space.

Important:
Do not place mothballs directly on the carpet to avoid staining or odor buildup.

2. Protect Your Carpet from Bugs and Carpet Beetles

One of the most common and dangerous pests for carpets is the carpet beetle. These insects often live underneath furniture, dark corners, and areas that are not vacuumed regularly.
Their larvae can quietly eat wool, leaving large bare patches as shown above.

How bugs damage carpets:

  • They feed on natural fibers like wool.

  • They often attack areas under sofas, beds, or unused carpets.

  • Their damage starts small but spreads quickly.

How to prevent bug damage:

  • Vacuum your carpet regularly, especially under furniture.

  • Keep your storage space clean, dry, and dust-free.

  • Before storing, clean and air out your carpet.

  • Use mothballs or natural repellents (like lavender pouches) while storing.

If you see round, bald patches or loose fibers—it may be a sign of carpet beetles, and you should get the carpet professionally cleaned or treated.

3. Long-Term Damage Caused by Heavy Furniture

Even if your carpet is not in storage, keeping it under heavy furniture for long periods can cause serious damage.

You may notice:

  • Deep dents

  • Flattened fibers

  • Discoloration

  • Worn-out patches where the pile is crushed

  • In severe cases, the foundation of the carpet becomes exposed (as shown in the picture)

How to avoid this:

  • Move or rotate your carpet every few months.

  • Shift the furniture slightly to avoid permanent pressure marks.

  • Use furniture pads under legs to distribute weight.

  • Do not leave carpets stored with heavy objects placed on top—they will deform.

Final Tips for Safe Carpet Storage

  • Always clean your carpet before storing it.

  • Roll, don’t fold.

  • Store in a dry, cool place—avoid moisture at all costs.

  • Use mothballs or natural repellents in small fabric pouches.

  • Check your stored carpets every few months.

Storing your carpet correctly can keep it in perfect condition for years.
If your carpet is already damaged—or you want professional washing and protection—AbeeRugs is always here to help with expert washing and repair services in Malaysia.

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