Insect infestation

[bugsquestion]

I've just sold something on eBay. Never used, still in box, stored in plastic box. Had it for about 8 years and finally having a clear out.

Seller has contacted me to say that it's full of live/dead insects. I'm not sure how this could happen!

I've apologised and offered to refund, but find this very strange - is it possible under these circumstances? No traces of any insects anywhere in our house.

Not trying to get out of refund, just never come across this under these circumstances

What kind of object is it and what material? Anything with wool/natural fibres?

It's mainly fabric, cotton I think

Ask the buyer to send a photo?

I have done. I feel really bad that this could happen, it's just never occurred to me that it was possible under these circumstances

Could be carpet beetles or moth larvae, anything that eats natural fibres. Agree nerd photo

No sign of anything else in the house, I've checked all the carpets (& most of the rest of the house). I'm itching just thinking about it!

Funnily enough my house is pristine, no pets, I live here alone, low wear and tear on everything. Completely renovated within the last 12 months...I was watering a pot plant in my bedroom today and was mortified to discover the soil in it actually moving with little tiny mite things. AGH!!!

God knows what they were, I haven't spotted one elsewhere. I guess it could happen

If it was folded and you didn't unfold and check it then it is possible that there are carpet beetle larvae or moths, but I wouldn't refund without a photo, and if you are in any doubt ask for it back first.

Carpet beetles (Woolly bears) can sneak into fabric. If there is an infestation of fabric eating critters, there would normally be signs of holes too.