Textile Pests

Textile pests include moths and many beetle species that feed on the natural protein 'Keratin'. This can be found in any textile of animal origin including wool, mohair, silk, animal hair, leather and feathers.

It is only when these insects become established in your property, and are left untreated, that they cause serious harm, such as:

• Damage to historic artefacts.
• Damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture.
• Contamination of foodstuffs and fabric–based goods.

For businesses, the presence of an infestation may also lead to damaged reputation and custom from the loss of stored items and irreparable damage to historical items.

Many species of textile pest have been recorded in Kenya, however only a few of these, mainly the introduced species, are commonly encountered.

The clothes moth species occur most frequently in the humid, coastal areas, while carpet beetles are more likely to be found inland.