Carpet Beetles: Frequently Asked Questions

Have you recently noticed some small black beetles running around your home and are not quite sure what they are? Carpet beetles, as their name would imply, love to feast on your carpets and can be a real nuisance that can ruin the carpets and other items in your home. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about carpet beetles.

How Can You Identify Carpet Beetles?

There are three different varieties of carpet beetles: the black carpet beetle, the varied carpet beetle, and the common carpet beetle. The black carpet beetle is black or deep brown in color, is shaped like a bullet, and has antennae. The varied carpet beetle is smaller than the black carpet beetle, it has small patches that are yellow, white, and black in color, and the larvae are covered in thick hair.

Otherwise known as the buffalo beetle, the common carpet beetle is larger and is covered in various black and white designs. The larvae are brown and covered in hair.

Where Would You Find Carpet Beetles in Your Home?

In addition to the carpets and rugs throughout your home, there are other places you can find carpet beetles lurking, including:

• Bedding, towels, and drapes
• Books and magazines
• Upholstered furniture
• Clothing made from natural fibers

Unfortunately, carpet beetles are also attracted to several staples found inside your pantry, including flour, dried fruits, nuts, seeds, spices, and uncooked pasta.

How Can You Get Rid of Carpet Beetles?

The larvae of the carpet beetles are the true nuisance, and unfortunately, it can be difficult to eradicate all the larvae on your own. This is why you should seek the assistance of a professional to get rid of carpet beetles and their larvae. An exterminator will use create a pest control management plan that could include intensive vacuuming, steam cleaning, and the use of pesticides.

How Can You Prevent Carpet Beetles From Entering Your Home?

There are several simple things you can do to keep carpet beetles from entering your home. Because carpet beetles can fly, install weather stripping and window screens to prevent the bugs from entering your home. Check any new carpets and upholstered furniture for carpet beetle larvae before bringing them into your home.

Vacuum your rugs often and store any linens, towels, and other products made from natural fibers in airtight containers to prevent damage.

Carpet beetles are a common pest that can wreak serious havoc in your home. Contact a pest control professional if you have any more questions about carpet beetles.