Insect Damage

Fabrics in Australia can be eaten by: Cockroaches; Moths; or Silverfish. Insects seek protein from the fibres, so fabrics containing: Angora; Cashmere; Silk; Wool are most at risk. Soiling left on fabric (food or drink) will further encourage insects to those areas for the high protein content. Even synthetics such as 100% polyester have been discovered holed as the insects chase the protein attached to the fibres.
Sometimes the “biting” effects don’t quite penetrate all the way through the fabric yarns, and the next washing or drycleaning cycle will expose the damage.

Moth Holes

An adult moth does not affect fabric, rather it hatched larvae causes the damage by eating the fibre cells seeking protein. Usually moth eggs will be collected from the environment, and are transported into your wardrobe on your garment, where they eventually hatch (incubation can be as long as 5 years in extreme cases). Later they will cocoon, and the adult insect flies away, leaving the garment owner wondering how the holes appeared.

Sometimes the “biting” effects don’t quite penetrate all the way through the fabric yarns, and the next washing or drycleaning cycle will expose the damage.