How to get rid of carpet beetles using DIY techniques?

Seeing carpet beetles on your favourite rug could be a nightmare. These tiny, unwanted creatures can cause a nuisance to your home. Carpet beetles feed on fibres such as wool, silk and fur. Carpets, furniture and clothing made of natural materials can also be damaged by them. If you have noticed any holes, bare spots or shed skins in your fabrics, you may have a carpet beetle infestation. Removing them as soon as you catch them is essential to prevent further damage.

 

What are carpet beetles?

Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects belonging to the family Dermestidae. They are often found in homes and can be a nuisance due to their ability to damage a wide range of materials. There are several species of carpet beetles, but the most common ones are the varied carpet beetle, black carpet beetle and furniture carpet beetle.

 

What Attracts carpet beetles?

• Natural fibers: They feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur and feathers.
• Synthetic fibers: They can also damage synthetic fabrics, especially if they are soiled with food or perspiration.
• Stored food: Carpet beetle larvae feed on stored food products, such as grains, cereals, pet food and dried meats.
• Dead insects: Dead insects can attract carpet beetles.
• Pet hair and dander: The presence of pets can lead to the accumulation of pet hair and dander, which are attractive to carpet beetles.

In this article, we will guide you through a series of instructions on how to get rid of carpet beetles from your home efficiently.

See also: How to get rid of ants permanently and take care of an ant infestation?

 

Source: Pinterest (Protech Pest Control)

 

Step-by-step guide to get rid of carpet beetles

Procedure

Inspect the infected area

Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects with a fuzzy appearance. For identification, if your home is infected by carpet beetles, look for signs of larvae, shed skins or small holes in fabrics. To find the source of the infestation, thoroughly check your carpets, rugs, curtains and furniture.

Clean the area

Thoroughly clean all the furniture infested with beetles, and pay special attention to the edges and corners. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the carpets and rugs. Dispose of the vacuum bag to prevent re-infestation. Consider replacing the furniture which is severely damaged.

Wash the fabric

Washing infested items such as carpets, curtains, clothes and other fabrics in hot water is an effective way to kill carpet beetles. Add some detergent or bleach and use the highest temperature setting that is safe for the material. Dry the items by hanging them outside in direct sunlight.

Natural cleaning methods

Boric acid powder

Boric acid is an effective natural insecticide used to kill carpet beetles. Sprinkle it on the affected carpets, rugs, furniture and other areas. Let it sit for two to three hours and then clean it up. Do not inhale the powder or let your skin and eyes in contact with it.

Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is an effective and safe method to kill carpet beetles. Its particles destroy the carpet beetle’s outer shells, thus killing them. Sprinkle it in infested areas. Leave it for two to three days, and then clean it up.

Neem oil

Neem oil is another natural insecticide that is used to get rid of carpet beetles. Make a mixture of neem oil with water and spray on the infested areas.

Chemical cleaning methods

Insecticide

Insecticides are effective in treating carpet beetles. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use it properly. Make sure that the area is well-ventilated.

Pest control

If the infection is severe, pest control might be the best solution for you. Contact a known and trusted pest control company and get it treated.

Signs of infestation

Signs of a carpet beetle infestation include damaged fabrics, the presence of small, hairy larvae and adult beetles, which are usually small, round, and multi-colored.

Preventive measures

Regular cleaning

Regularly vacuum and clean your carpets and rugs. Wash the fabrics in a few months and dust shelves and drawers.

Store the items carefully

Keep your storage area clean and store the materials in air-tight containers.

Bay leaf

Bay leaves have a strong scent that is useful to prevent carpet beetles. Place bay leaves in wardrobes, drawers and other storage areas.

Natural oils

Cedar, lavender and clove oils are natural repellents for carpet beetles. Soak a cotton ball with the oil and place it in wardrobes, drawers, and other storage areas.

Regularly clean pet areas

If you have pets, clean and groom them regularly to reduce the presence of pet hair and dander in your home, which can attract carpet beetles.

Seal entry points

Seal any cracks, gaps, or openings that could allow carpet beetles to enter your home. This includes doors, windows and foundation gaps.

Reduce outdoor attractants

If you have had problems with carpet beetles entering your home from the outdoors, consider reducing outdoor attractants such as flowers, gardens or bird nests near your home.

Monitor and maintain

Regularly inspect your home for any signs of carpet beetle activity. If you notice any damage or beetles, take prompt action to address the issue.

Professional pest control

If you experience a recurring carpet beetle problem, or if the infestation is persistent, it is advisable to consult a professional pest control service. They can provide more comprehensive and targeted solutions to eliminate the issue and prevent it from returning.

 

FAQs

Are carpet beetles harmful to one's health?

Yes, their shed hairs and body parts cause allergic reactions such as rashes, skin irritation, itching, swelling, redness, etc.

I have tried all the methods, yet the beetles won't go away.

If the condition is extreme, it is best to consult a professional pest control service.

How do carpet beetles get into houses?

Carpet beetles can enter your home through leaks, open windows and doors.

Should I throw away infested items?

The items that are severely damaged and cannot be cleaned should be discarded immediately.

Is freezing effective to kill carpet beetles?

Yes, freezing the infested items for a few days can help kill carpet beetles. Make sure you place them in sealed plastic bags.

Does spraying vinegar kill carpet beetles?

Spraying Vinegar is an effective way to get rid of carpet beetles.

Does shampoo kill carpet beetles?

You can shampoo your carpets using hot water or a steam cleaner to get rid of the pests.

What type of damage do carpet beetles cause?

Carpet beetle larvae are responsible for the damage. They feed on materials like clothing, carpets, upholstery, and stored food, leaving behind small holes or irregular patterns.

What is the life cycle of carpet beetles?

Carpet beetles go through a complete metamorphosis, with stages that include eggs, larvae, pupae and adults. It is the larvae that cause damage by feeding on various materials.

Can carpet beetles return after an infestation is eliminated?

Yes, carpet beetles can return if the conditions that attracted them initially are not addressed. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent their return.

Are there natural methods to control carpet beetles?

Some natural methods include using diatomaceous earth, cedarwood products, and essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus. However, these methods may not be as effective as chemical treatments in severe infestations.

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