At Innovative Pest Solutions, a Raleigh, NC family-owned pest control company with over 20 years of experience and a 5-star Google rating, we understand that even the smallest pests can cause big problems. One such invader is the carpet beetle. While their name might suggest a singular focus on carpets, these tiny insects can wreak havoc on a variety of fabrics, food items and belongings.
This blog post will serve as your guide to understanding and controlling carpet beetles. We’ll explore their biology, what they look like, and most importantly, equip you with 5 key tips to banish them from your Raleigh home.
Carpet Beetle Biology: More Than Meets the Eye
Carpet beetles are not actually beetles in the strictest sense. They belong to the family Dermestidae, which includes a wide range of fabric-feeding insects. These tiny creatures go through a complete metamorphosis, meaning they have four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
- Eggs: Carpet beetle eggs are microscopic, measuring only about 1/50th of an inch. They are typically laid in hidden areas like cracks, crevices, or around and in potential food sources.
- Larvae: The larval stage is the most destructive. The larvae are small, hairy, and can vary in color depending on the species. They are the primary culprits behind fabric damage.
- Pupae: Once the larvae have grown, they spin a cocoon and pupate. This inactive stage can last for several weeks.
- Adults: Adults are oval-shaped and typically only grow to about 1/8th of an inch. They are attracted to light and can fly, though their flight is weak and fluttery.
Identifying the Carpet Beetle: A Sneaky Invader
Knowing what these creatures look like is the first step in identifying an infestation. Here’s a breakdown of their appearance:
- Size: Small, typically around 1/8th of an inch long.
- Shape: Oval-shaped with a flattened body.
- Color: Can vary depending on the species, but common colors include brown, black, and white with spotted patterns. (In the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area the Varied Carpet Beetle is the most common found)
The larvae are the most difficult to identify due to their small size. They are typically elongated and hairy, and their coloring can also vary. If you suspect an infestation or some activity, but cannot identify the culprit, contacting a professional pest control company like us is the best course of action. Many times the cast skins from the carpet beetle are mistaken for Bedbugs.
5 Tips to Control Carpet Beetles in Your Raleigh Home
Now that you’re familiar with their biology and identification, here are 5 key tips to help you control them:
1. Finding the Source Is Key
The first step to controlling an infestation is identifying the source. This might involve inspecting areas like:
- Closets and drawers: Where clothes, blankets, and other fabrics are stored.
- Underneath furniture: The larvae love dark, undisturbed areas.
- Air ducts and vents: Can serve as pathways for these pests to travel throughout your home.
- Bird or rodent nests: These can harbor carpet beetles and other fabric-feeding pests.
- Pet supplies/food bowls: For a residential setting, pet food is a highly likely source of the Carpet Beetle. Pet owners unknowingly bring home these pests in pet food and supplies. (If you have cats, cats love to play with their food so check in hard to reach areas like under the dishwasher, stove, and washer/dryers.
By finding the source of the infestation, you can target your efforts and eliminate the root of the problem.
2. Vacuuming: Your First Line of Defense
Vacuuming regularly is a crucial step in controlling carpet beetles. Pay close attention to areas where you suspect activity, such as under furniture, along baseboards, around the edges of carpets, and don’t forget under appliances in the kitchen/laundry room areas. Once you’ve finished vacuuming, be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or canister contents outdoors in a sealed trash bin.
3. Washing Fabrics and Belongings:
Wash any fabrics or belongings that you suspect may be infested with carpet beetles. Use hot water and detergent, and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes. This will kill any carpet beetle eggs or larvae that may be present.
4. Clean Infested Areas Thoroughly: Any areas that are infested should be cleaned using hot water and a proper cleaning solutions to ensure pests are gone.
5. Call Innovative Pest Solutions: We’re Here to Help!
If you’ve tried these tips and are still struggling with a carpet beetle infestation, don’t hesitate to contact Innovative Pest Solutions, your trusted Raleigh pest control company. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge and tools necessary to eliminate carpet beetles from your home quickly and effectively. We offer a variety of safe and effective treatment options to ensure your home is carpet beetle (and other pests) free!
