Inspecting for Carpet Beetles

Carpet Beetle Identification | Inspecting For Carpet Beetles | Treating For Carpet BeetlesPreventing Carpet Beetles ]


Where to Find Carpet Beetles
Identifying Carpet Beetles Where to Find

Carpet Beetles are only about the size of a pinhead. Carpet Beetles, as well as their larvae can damage carpets, furniture, clothing, and felt material. If you think that you have Carpet Beetles in your house, finding the infestation itself will assist in their treatment.


Carpet Beetles and Natural Fibers

Carpet Beetles Identification Natural Fibers

Carpet Beetles are drawn to natural fibers. They are attracted to carpet hence their name, but they will also be found near or on other natural fibers. They are attracted to silk, fresh flowers, wool, paint brushes, pet fur, and human hair.

Carpet Beetles usually steer clear of synthetic fibers, but more than likely will become attracted to those type of fibers if the fibers happen to contain human or animal sweat, oil, or even blood. Carpet Beetles are also attracted to flowers for their pollen. Carpet Beetles are sometimes unknowingly brought indoors in flowers. Always check any flowers for Carpet Beetles before bringing them inside.

Carpet Beetles can also be found in dry food products such as grains, rice, and even dog food. If you think that you have an infestation, always check the following items:
  • Rugs and Carpets
  • Blankets
  • Furniture

Carpet Beetle Larvae Prefer Dark Areas
Carpet Beetle Identification Dark Areas

Carpet Beetle larvae prefer the dark and can commonly be found in places that do not get much light. This would include:
  • Closets
  • Pantries
  • Kitchen cabinets
  • Attics
  • Basements
  • Garages
  • Air vents
  • Air ducts
The adult Carpet Beetles however are attracted to light and can be found near light fixtures and windows. The Carpet Beetle larvae are the ones that cause the damage, not the adults, so if you see adults, you should check in dark areas for their larvae.


Check These Spots for Carpet Beetles
Identifying Carpet Beetles Music Cases Velvet

There are somewhat other miscellaneous places where Carpet Beetles can also be found that include:
  • Musical instrument cases. (Carpet Beetles will feed off the felt or velvet in the lining.)
  • Under lamps with felt or velvet padding
  • Under furniture or furniture legs with felt or velvet pads
  • Inside the baits for rats/mice. They will also feed off the dead rodents, so empty these baits often.
  • Taxidermied animals
  • Fresh flowers

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