When customers discover holes in their favorite garments after cleaning, they often assume the damage happened at your shop. But in most cases, the real culprits are insects that weakened the fibers long before intake.
Understanding how insect damage works—and how to explain it—protects your business, builds customer trust, and helps clients prevent future damage.
Why It Matters
Insects don’t just chew sweaters. They can:
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Quietly weaken fibers so holes only appear after cleaning.
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Damage garments, carpets, and upholstery.
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Cause allergic reactions and breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals.
That’s why intake inspection and customer education are critical.
Fast Facts for Your Shop Floor
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Damage is irreversible. Once fibers are eaten away, holes can’t be undone.
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Soiled or damp clothing = pest magnets. Food stains, perspiration, and body oils attract insects. Always encourage customers to store clean.
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Who eats what?
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Moths: Wool, silk, leather, suede, fur.
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Carpet beetles: Cotton, linen, ramie, some rayons, plus carpets and furniture.
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Silverfish: Starches, sizing, and even wallpaper paste.
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Cockroaches: Anything with food residue.
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Why holes show up after cleaning: Eggs, larvae, and already-weakened fibers are often invisible. Once cleaned, the damaged fibers break down and holes become visible.
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Typical look: Small, crater-like holes—scattered or clustered. Light fabrics may show yellowish staining from insect secretions.
Intake Checklist for Staff
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Ask & Inspect: Always ask, “Has this been in storage?” Pay close attention to cuffs, collars, pleats, and pocket edges.
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Look for tells: Thinned areas, grazed nap, irregular pinholes, or powdery debris.
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Document: Photograph and note: “Possible pre-existing insect damage; holes may reveal post-clean.”
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Set expectations: Be transparent with customers—use the script below.
Counter Script for Customers
“Thanks for bringing this in. Because it was stored for a while and has areas with food or perspiration exposure, there’s a chance insects weakened the fibers. Cleaning can reveal pre-existing damage like small holes that weren’t visible before. We’ll handle this with care and document everything, but for the future, bringing items in clean makes the biggest difference.”
Plant Processing Notes
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Handle gently—avoid friction on suspect areas.
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Recheck garments under bright light post-cleaning.
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Photograph and tag any newly visible damage. Offer repair or reweaving options where possible.
Prevention Tips to Share with Customers
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Clean before storing. Dry cleaning or laundering is the #1 defense.
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Use aromatics sparingly. Cedar and lavender help, but they won’t eliminate infestations.
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Call pest control if damage is widespread in the home.
Communication & Claims Tips
When a customer sees “new” holes:
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Explain calmly that cleaning revealed pre-existing insect damage.
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Show intake notes and photos to reinforce your shop’s diligence.
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Offer repair suggestions and a storage plan (clean → breathable bag → cool, dry space).
The Bottom Line
Most “moth holes” customers see after cleaning aren’t caused by your process—they’re revealed by it. With solid intake, clear communication, and practical prevention advice, you can protect your business, safeguard garments, and build long-term trust.
Pro Tip: Consider creating a one-page counter handout or sign that explains “Why Store Clean.” It saves staff time, prevents claims, and positions your shop as an expert resource.
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