In the busyness of life, it isn’t often we take time to examine our carpets or floors. Usually, it is assumed that regular cleaning will eliminate pests of any kind. However, as you are sitting or walking around your rooms, you may notice a few bugs here and there. One such bug that can seemingly appear out of nowhere is the carpet beetle. But is seeing several carpet beetles a big deal? Does it mean there is an infestation that needs to be handled? Continue reading to find out more about carpet beetles and what to be aware of when it comes to these insects.

What Are Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles are small bugs, generally ranging from 1 to 12 mm in size, with an oval-shaped scaly body. They often enter a home through an open window or door and then proceed to lay eggs in the carpets or on furniture. Carpet beetles are not harmful in any way to humans or pets, but they can still be problematic as they will cause damage to carpets, upholstery, rugs, or clothing. These nuisance pests are known to eat away at fabric and fibers. If an area has been left alone for a while, like an attic or closet, this is when carpet beetles can do the most damage.

Signs Carpet Beetles May Be Present

Oftentimes, carpet beetles are mistaken for bed bugs because they can also be found not only on floors and carpets but also on beds. They like fabric and are attracted to bedding. These bugs like to eat dead skin, which is another reason why they are attracted to bedding and clothes where they can find flakes of skin. Carpet bugs can also cause skin irritation, also resembling a bed bug bite. If you should notice these small bugs and skin irritation but without the other signs of bed bugs like blood or fecal matter, then chances are you have carpet bugs. Other signs of carpet bugs can include thin or bare areas on rugs and carpet, finding shed larvae skin, damage to clothing or blankets, or finding small bugs crawling on walls or dead bugs on window sills or other places around the space.

Get Rid of Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles can be quite a pain to get rid of. Even though they are small, they can cause significant damage and multiply into an infestation faster than desired. There are some things that can be done to help eliminate carpet beetles.

First, vacuum often both floors and furniture such as couches or beds. Wash clothing and rugs in warm water. There are sprays that can help diminish the carpet beetle population.

Use mothballs or other methods for keeping the bugs away inside closets or attic spaces. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, it is not enough. In this case, it is better to rely on professional exterminating services. Exterminators can find the damage in the home and locate carpet beetles to treat and rid a space of these pests for good. Hiring a professional ensures the complete removal of these small bugs, so you don’t have to worry about another infestation if you happen not to get them all with DIY treatment. There are always green pest options available as well. Trust our reliable and experienced exterminators to get rid of all signs of carpet beetles.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Pest Force today.

FAQs

Are Carpet Beetles Harmful?

Carpet beetles are not known to bite, but they can cause rashes when they come into contact with human skin. They are not overly harmful to people, but they can cause significant harm to the carpet, rugs, furniture, and other objects in your home.

Can I Prevent a Carpet Beetle Infestation?

It is possible to keep carpet beetles from getting inside your home. You will want to make sure to seal up any cracks or openings. Caulk around windows and doors and replace any window screens with rips or holes. Also, if carpet beetles are already in the home, be sure to vacuum regularly and then dispose of the contents in the vacuum. Wash bedding, clothing, and pet bedding often. This can help prevent a carpet beetle infestation from occurring.

Where Do Carpet Beetles Hide?

As their name implies, carpet beetles can often be found hiding in the carpet, but that’s not the only place they are found. They can also be found on windows or around doors, in attics, basements, crawlspaces, chimneys, or even on flowers that are brought inside the home. Wool is also very attractive for carpet beetles.