Have you spotted some mysterious holes in your carpets or clothing? Chances are, you could be dealing with a carpet beetle infestation.
These pests, along with their eggs, can leave itchy skin and damaged furniture in their path. Keep reading to learn how to identify and kill carpet beetles for good:
What Are Carpet Beetles?
Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects that can wreak havoc in your home. While adult carpet beetles prefer outdoor pollen, their larvae feast on natural fibres like wool, silk, and leather. Common types include varied furniture and black carpet beetles, each causing similar damage.
Signs Of A Carpet Beetle Infestation
If you’re unsure whether carpet beetles live in your home, here are some telltale signs:
- Translucent bristly larvae skins are often found under rugs or in dark corners.
- Holes in fabrics may appear on clothing, wool rugs, and upholstery.
- Adult carpet beetles are commonly seen near windows and lights.
- Thinned or bald spots may develop on rugs, furs, or blankets.
Why Do Carpet Beetles Infest Homes?
Carpet beetles are drawn to homes by food sources, hiding spots, and access to light.
In fact, many carpet beetles eat organic materials, making cluttered homes with animal fur or dust bunnies prime targets. That’s why it’s essential to keep your home clean and seal entry points.
How To Get Rid Of Carpet Beetles: Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these steps to repel carpet beetles after they’ve entered your home:
Identify Infestation Source
Check hotspots like closets, attics, and behind baseboards where larvae feed, and carpet beetle adults might lay eggs. In addition, you always need to inspect old furniture and soiled laundry.
Thorough Cleaning And Vacuuming
Vacuum all carpets, upholstery, and crevices regularly to remove carpet beetle larvae, eggs, and dead insects. Be sure to use attachments to clean under furniture, windowsills, and closets where these pests often hide.
Launder Affected Fabrics
To manage carpet beetles, wash all affected clothing and fabrics in hot, soapy water to kill eggs and larvae. Focus on natural fabrics like wool, silk, and leather, especially if they are soiled.
Consider Professional Cleaners
Steam cleaning can be highly effective for killing eggs and larvae. For heavily infested areas, it may be time to get carpets professionally cleaned or consult a pest control company for help.
Prevent Carpet Beetle Infestations
If you want to prevent a carpet beetle infestation, you need to ensure proper cleanliness:
Regular Cleaning And Maintenance
Vacuum often and clean thoroughly to remove food sources and larvae. Then, for good measure, hire professionals for deep cleaning.
Proper Food Storage
Keep grains, pet food, and other pantry items in airtight containers to eliminate their food source.
Inspect Items Brought Into Homes
Shake out flowers, inspect secondhand furniture, and seal open windows to stop beetles from entering your home.
Hire Professional Cleaners
Professional cleaners can thoroughly treat your home, from deep steam cleaning to removing hidden eggs and larvae. Contact Anago Cleaning Systems for expert care that will tackle the problem at its source.