Dont let these uninvited guests take over your home.

What Are Carpet Beetles?

As their name suggests, these insects often inhabit carpets and other fabrics.

Carpet Beetles

Credit:Andrea Ferro/Getty Images

You should research your location to determine which carpet beetles to look out for.

The larvae are usually about an 1/8-inch long, tan and covered in hairy bristles.

The damage done by carpet beetles can sometimes be mistaken formoth damage.

How Do Carpet Beetles Get Into Your Home?

They also can come into the home via potted plants, since adult carpet beetles feed on flower pollen.

Where Can You Find Carpet Beetles?

Typically, carpet beetles lay eggs on carpet and rugs, particularly in darker areas.

Check for signs of eggs and larvae in your carpet, upholstery, and closets.

You’ll also want to investigate areas that collect lint like your baseboards and air vents.

The longer the carpet beetles are left in the home, the more they populate.

Use a spray bottle to lightly coat your carpets and other fabric-based areas.

double-check to vacuum all carpets and rugs, including hard-to-reach nooks by using your vacuum crevice tool.

Additionally, use the crevice tool to vacuum any upholstered furniture and baseboards.

Move thoroughly over all infested or suspected areas.

This can also be used regularly as a preventative measure in the spring and summer.

Boric Acid

This household powder can be found in many supermarkets.

Additionally, check any potted plants for signs of carpet beetles before bringing them inside.

Finally, wrap rolled up rugs in plastic and seal valuable clothing in tight plastic bags or bins.

Are Carpet Beetles Dangerous?

In short, no.

Its best to keep these uninvited guests out of your home.

University of Kentucky, Department of Entomology.Carpet beetles.