What Are Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles are insects that belong to the family Dermestidae, which has more than 500 species worldwide. The species within Dermestidae, known as carpet beetles, that we battle as household pests, are Anthrenus verbasci (varied carpet beetle), Anthrenus scrophulariae (common carpet beetle), Anthrenus flavipes (furniture carpet beetle), and Attagenus unicolor (black carpet beetle). These are small, oval-shaped beetles that have a range of colorations. The common carpet beetle, varied carpet beetle, and the furniture carpet beetle are a mix of brown, white, and black. Black carpet beetles are black or dark brown. All of these range in length from 1/10 of an inch to 5/16 of an inch.

All carpet beetles can be frustrating when they invade our homes, which they are prone to do every fall, as they are overwintering pests. When they get in, they are more than just a nuisance. They can do some serious damage.

Though their name implies that these insects only eat carpets, this is not the case. Carpet beetles feed on natural fibers. In nature, they feed on dead animals and insects. In your home, they will be drawn to feed on clothing, carpets, drapes, tapestries, couch cushions, and other items--if they are made out of natural fibers.

The larvae of the carpet beetle are tiny, and easy to miss. So, it is actually a good thing when adult carpet beetles annoy us. They are a warning sign of hidden damage being done.

Carpet beetle larvae can also be pantry pests. They feed on many items that are found in your pantry, such as grains and spices. Adults can also be a problem as they get into food to lay their eggs.

It is extremely hard to get rid of carpet beetles. Your home is a rich food environment for these pests. When they aren't feeding on your fabrics and eating your stored foods, they can get into wall voids and consume the dead insects in there. You can be sure that, if you have carpet beetles in your home, you have other overwintering bugs that have died in your walls as well.

If you're dealing with carpet beetles in your Lexington home, we know how frustrating it can be. Don't let those pests bug you another day. At Action Pest Control, we have over 70 state-certified pest management professionals waiting to assist you. With ongoing residential pest control from Action, you can stop the conditions that are allowing pests to enter your home, and seal them all out. Get help today.