This month we’re looking at a pest we’ve never covered in our blog: carpet beetles. Perhaps you’ve heard of them. If not, that’s not surprising. These small insects are overlooked in favor of more famous pests like cockroaches and bed bugs. While they usually “fly under the radar both literally and figuratively, they are a force to be reckoned with if an infestation occurs in your home or business. 

Despite their name, carpet beetles feed on a wide range of materials, including carpets, furniture, clothing, and even dead insects. Because of this they can leave a remarkable damage trail, doing a lot of damage before their presence is noticed! 

Physical Characteristics and Naming

Carpet beetles are unassuming oval-shaped insects that typically range from 1/16 to 1/8 inch in length. Their small size is one reason for their success: they often arrive unnoticed and multiply without detection. 

They come in various colors, including black, brown, and patterns with mottled shades. Their larvae, which are often the most destructive stage, are brown but shaped like tiny carrots, and are covered with bristly hairs. As for their name “carpet beetles”, the moniker comes from their tendency to feed on natural fibers, especially carpets, but they also infest upholstery, clothing, and other textiles.

Habits and Habitat

During warmer months, adults tend to fly around in search of mates and potential egg-laying sites. While most active in spring and summer they prefer secluded, dark areas, which makes them especially troublesome in the colder months when they may nest in attics, basements, or closets, feeding on organic material.

Do I have an Infestation?

You might not spot actual carpet beetles right away, but signs of their arrival will mark their presence. These include small fecal pellets and shed skins left behind by larvae. You may also notice holes in fabrics, carpets, and upholstery. If you spot these you should investigate further, particularly in areas that are dark and hidden from frequent cleaning, such as closets and basements.

Are they Dangerous to People or Animals?

These pesky insects don’t pose a direct health threat to humans or pets. Their biggest threat lies in their ability to damage property. With an appetite for natural fibers, they can really wreak havoc on clothing, carpets, and upholstery…especially items stored in out of the way locations.

Prevention and Control

Regular cleaning is key to preventing an infestation from developing. Develop a practice of vacuuming frequently, especially in hidden areas like under furniture or in corners. This will go a long way toward removing larvae and eggs before they have a chance to hatch. 

Storing clothing and other susceptible items in airtight containers can also help. It’s important to clean up crumbs or spills promptly to remove food sources that might attract the beetles. If an infestation gets out of hand, professional pest control services may be necessary, as carpet beetle eggs are highly resilient and difficult to eliminate on your own.

We are ready to help you combat carpet beetles and other more famous pests that may have taken up residence in your home or business. Even better, we can help you establish a preventative control plan that helps avoid problems associated with pests. Contact us at (405) 679-8729 to discuss your needs.