How To Get Rid Of Carpet Beetles? A Comprehensive Guide

Are you noticing mysterious holes in your rugs? If so, you may be dealing with the bothersome presence of carpet beetles. Despite their name, these insects don't limit their destructive tendencies to just carpets. 

In this guide, we will explore the signs of a carpet beetle infestation and provide effective strategies for how to get rid of varied carpet beetles and prevent further damage. Understanding their nature and employing targeted measures is crucial to maintaining a pest-free home.

What Are Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles are oblong insects ranging from about one-sixteenth to one-eighth of an inch in length. These pests can display various colors. Some are black and others feature a mottled pattern that incorporates shades of black, white, brown, yellow, and orange. 

The true culprits in carpet beetle infestations are the larvae. They are worm-like in shape and measure between a quarter and an eighth of an inch in length. 

Carpet beetles typically emerge during springtime, often found on windowsills and near doorways. As they infiltrate homes, female beetles lay between 50 and 100 eggs, especially in proximity to materials such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, animal skins, and leather. 

Signs Of Carpet Beetle Infestation

Detecting what causes carpet beetle infestation in its early stages is crucial for efficient control. The presence of carpet beetle larvae is a clear indicator, while there are many other signs of carpet beetle infestation in your home:

Carpet Beetle Larvae

The most evident sign is the presence of carpet beetle larvae. 

These worm-like creatures are usually pale tan to light brown and covered in brownish bristles. If you spot these larvae, it's a clear indication of an infestation.

Molted Larva Skins

As carpet beetle larvae grow, they molt their skin. It leaves behind light brown, shell-like material. Discovering these molted skins in various areas of your home signals an ongoing carpet beetle infestation.

Damage to Natural Fibers

Carpet beetles target materials with natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather. If you observe holes, threadbare spots, or visible damage on such items, it suggests that carpet beetle larvae are feeding on these materials.

Entrances and Windows

Discovering carpet beetles near the entrances to your home or around windows is a significant sign. These areas serve as common entry points for carpet beetles. If you notice their presence in these locations, it is essential to take immediate action.

Dark and Enclosed Spaces

Carpet beetles thrive in dark and enclosed spaces, making areas like closets, chests, drawers, and boxes potential hotspots. Regularly examine these spaces for signs of carpet beetle activity, like larvae, molted skins, and damaged materials.

How To Get Rid of Carpet Beetles Naturally?

So, what kills carpet beetles? Getting rid of carpet beetles requires a tactical and thorough approach. You can get professional services for the job. If you prefer natural methods to tackle the infestation, here are effective ways to eradicate carpet beetles from your home:

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural desiccant that dehydrates carpet beetle larvae. It’s derived from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms known as diatoms. It proves to be a powerful and natural solution for combating carpet beetles in homes. Recognized for its versatility, DE operates as a desiccant, dehydrating and absorbing moisture from the bodies of insects, larvae, and pests. 

To utilize DE against carpet beetles effectively, it's crucial to follow a few key steps:

• Firstly, ensure the selection of food-grade diatomaceous earth to guarantee its safety around humans and pets. 
• Before application, wear a protective mask and gloves to prevent inhaling the fine particles. 
• So, how do you get rid of carpet beetles permanently, identify the areas prone to infestation, such as near rugs, carpets, and dark, enclosed spaces.
• Evenly sprinkle a thin layer of DE in these locations, allowing it to remain for a few days. 
• Finally, thoroughly vacuum the treated areas to remove both the diatomaceous earth and the dehydrated carpet beetles.

Boric Acid

Boric acid is poisonous to insects' metabolic systems. This white, crystalline substance disrupts the digestive and nervous systems of insects upon contact. Additionally, its fine particles wield an abrasive action, mechanically damaging the exoskeletons of carpet beetles. It renders them vulnerable to its effects.

So, how do you get rid of carpet beetles effectively? Well, one approach is to use boric acid against carpet beetles. For this, one must follow a systematic approach. Begin by obtaining boric acid in powder form. Sprinkle the powder in areas where carpet beetles are likely to dwell. 

Allow the powder to sit for several hours to work. Subsequently, perform a thorough vacuuming of the treated areas, ensuring a clean environment.

For a more targeted application, consider making a boric acid spray by dissolving a tablespoon of boric acid in two cups of hot water. Apply this solution to susceptible fabrics, and crevices in your home. 

Vinegar

White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are effective at repelling carpet beetles. When facing the challenge of carpet beetle infestation, incorporating white vinegar or apple cider vinegar into your defense strategy can prove remarkably effective. 

The inherent acidity of vinegar creates an environment that carpet beetles find inhospitable. It acts as a deterrent and preserves the integrity of your textiles.

By simply pouring either type into a spray bottle, you gain a versatile solution to safeguard fabrics and vulnerable areas from potential carpet beetle damage. Beetles thrive on dust, lint, and pet hair, making consistent vacuuming an impactful method not only for removing existing beetles but also for preventing their resurgence.

This is how you get rid of carpet beetles at home. Protecting your home from the presence of carpet beetles is crucial.  Complementing these methods with a regular vacuuming routine, especially in dark, enclosed spaces, fortifies your defense against these pests. 

Remember the key is to stay consistent. By incorporating these practices into your household maintenance routine, you can enjoy a living environment that is free from carpet beetle infestations. At Kuden Rugs, we show you how to take proper care of your precious rugs.