Though often overlooked, carpet beetles are more than just a nuisance—they can quietly wreak havoc on your home. These small pests target natural fabrics, causing significant damage to your carpets, furniture, and clothing if left unchecked. At Alta Pest Control, we understand how crucial it is to keep your home safe from pests, and we’re here to offer comprehensive solutions that protect your space.
What Does A Carpet Beetle Look Like?
Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects, usually black or brown, often featuring a pattern of white or yellow. Adult carpet beetles, though only about 1/8 of an inch in size, can be difficult to spot unless you know what to look for. They are often found near window sills or light sources, as they are drawn to sunlight.
However, it’s their larvae that are the real culprits when it comes to damage. These small, hairy larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, leather, and fur. You’ll find them tucked away in dark, undisturbed areas of your home like closets, behind furniture, or in attics. These larvae are covered in bristles, which can cause irritation to those sensitive to allergens, adding another layer of concern beyond the material damage they inflict.
The Different Types of Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetles come in a variety of species, with each presenting slightly different characteristics:
- Varied Carpet Beetle: This type has a distinctive mottled appearance with a mix of black, white, and yellow scales.
- Black Carpet Beetle: These are typically solid black in color and are some of the most common and destructive beetles found in homes.
- Furniture Carpet Beetle: Covered in yellow scales, they often infest upholstery, making your sofas and chairs their target.
Each type poses a similar threat by damaging natural fabrics, which makes identifying and eliminating them crucial.
Signs of a Carpet Beetle Infestation
Although carpet beetles are small, they leave clear signs of their presence. If you catch these signs early, you can prevent significant damage:
- Holes in Fabrics: The most common sign of an infestation is finding small, irregular holes in carpets, rugs, clothing, and upholstery. The damage is typically caused by larvae feeding on the fibers.
- Shed Skins: As larvae grow, they shed their skins, leaving behind small, rice-like casings. These are usually found in darker, hidden areas of your home like closets or under furniture.
- Furniture Damage: Over time, carpet beetles can cause thinning or bald spots in your upholstered furniture. If you notice unexplained damage, especially in low-traffic areas, it could be a sign of carpet beetles.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent further damage.
How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles
The most effective way to eliminate carpet beetles is to bring in a professional pest control service. At Alta Pest Control, we use specialized treatments that are both safe for your family and pets and highly effective against carpet beetles. Our trained technicians treat the infestation from every angle, addressing both adult beetles and their larvae, ensuring the infestation is fully eradicated.
While professional treatment is the most reliable solution, here are a few steps you can take to protect your home after treatment:
- Vacuum Regularly: Carpet beetle larvae can hide in carpets, baseboards, and behind furniture. Regular vacuuming helps remove any remaining eggs or larvae.
- Wash Fabrics in Hot Water: Clean any affected clothing, linens, and blankets in hot water. This kills off any remaining larvae and eggs, helping to prevent a resurgence.
- Declutter Your Space: Carpet beetles are attracted to clutter, which provides ample hiding spots. Keeping your home tidy and free of unnecessary items helps to deter them.
How to Prevent Carpet Beetles from Returning
To avoid a recurring carpet beetle problem, quarterly pest control treatments are essential. At Alta Pest Control, we offer ongoing pest management plans that keep your home protected year-round. With quarterly treatments, we create a barrier that prevents carpet beetles from returning while also keeping other pests at bay.
Our pest control services are designed to be proactive, catching potential problems before they escalate. We focus on keeping your home safe from pests while ensuring the treatment process is as hassle-free as possible for you.
Why Choose Alta Pest Control?
At Alta Pest Control, we’re more than just a pest control company—we care deeply about protecting your home and making sure you feel comfortable in your space. We understand how frustrating a carpet beetle infestation can be, and we’re dedicated to providing solutions that not only solve the problem but also give you peace of mind.
Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, offering professional advice and services that keep your home safe for the long term. Whether you’re dealing with a current carpet beetle issue or want to prevent future infestations, we’re ready to help.
Schedule an Inspection Today
Don’t wait until the damage is done—contact Alta Pest Control today to schedule a home inspection. Our friendly team is here to answer any questions you have and provide expert solutions tailored to your home’s needs. With our pest-free guarantee, you can trust that your home is in the best possible hands.