How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles are small but surprisingly destructive insects, causing severe damage to your favourite woollen clothes, rug, or even sofa cushions. If you have ever pulled out your winter coat only to find out that it is damaged with holes, you might get frustrated - the culprits could be carpet beetles. In the UK, the carpet beetles are raising concerns, but don’t worry, we will walk you through everything about carpet beetles, from helping you identify them to preventive advice and permanently protecting your carpets from carpet beetles.

What exactly is a black carpet beetle? 

The black carpet beetle is significantly dominant in UK households. Adult beetles are 2 to 4 mm long with shiny, dark, oval-shaped bodies. But their larvae, often called "woolly bears," are the real concern because they feed on natural fibres like silk, wool, and leather. 

Powerful Ways to Eliminate Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles can not be identified easily until we notice some tiny holes ot mysterious patches on the carpet. That’s where the panic starts.  But the good news is you can kick them out and keep them away from your home with the right approach. 

Deep clean like you never before!

We all love to deep clean the house before spring, but this spring, deep clean with a purpose. These carpet beetles and their larvae love to hide under the sofas, storage areas, and in the corners where they live rent-free. It is time to evict them!

• Thoroughly vacuum your space regularly with a main focus on carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Pay special attention to corners and under the furniture where beetle larvae could hide and lay eggs. 

• Use a stem cleaner to kill beetle larvae and eggs with high heat. 

• Wash all your fabrics at a high temperature (above 60 °C) to kill any hidden invaders. 

Go Natural with Home Remedies

Sometimes, natural remedies do wonders that we usually don't expect. You do not always need harsh chemicals to win this war. Most of the home remedies used to get rid of carpet moths also work against carpet beetles.  

• Mix white vinegar with water and wipe down surfaces to prevent beetles.

• Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth on carpets and impacted areas to dehydrate and kill carpet beetles.

• You can also spray peppermint oil and diluted lavender oil in the specific areas to repel adult beetles. 

Use Insecticides Safely and Strategically 

If you have tried everything and things have gotten out of control. It is time to bring the big gun. 

• Use chemical insecticide sprays in affected areas that are labelled for beetle control. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using chemical sprays inside the home. 

• You can also use smoke bombs in severe infestations when the house is empty for a few hours, to reach every hidden area where other treatments, such as a vacuum, could not reach. 

Seal the deal with Preventive Measures 

You have cleaned everything and kicked the beetles out of your home, but what if beetles can still crawl in from the outside? It is like removing water from a leaking boat.

• Seal the cracks and gaps around doors and windows to avoid entry.

• Store your woollen and other clothes in properly sealed containers. 

• Regularly check for bird nests in attics and eaves, which are a common source of beetle invasion. 

How to Spot Beetle Infestation?

Is your bedroom carpet looking outdated? Carpet beetles can be a cause! Beetle eggs are so small that most people could not spot them until there is visible damage to the fabric or carpet. If you cannot figure out carpet beetles in your home, look for these red flags:

• Damage or holes in your fabrics, like upholstery, carpets, and clothing

• Look for carpet beetle eggs in the dark, untouched areas like old storage boxes or under the furniture. 

• Beetle larvae leave behind shed skin as they grow. The skin is mostly found inside clothes and near furniture.

• Adult beetles are attracted to light, so if you find dead beetles near lamps or windows, it is a sign of beetle locality. 

Bed Bugs V/S Carpet Beetles: Know the Difference 

Are you waking up itchy with bites on your skin, but don't know which one is causing chaos in your home? Don’t worry, and see the difference between the  two below: 

Where Carpet Beetles Hide?

You might assume from its name that carpet beetles are found only in carpets, but these sneaky insects love: 

• Dark Closets

• Drawers and storage boxes 

• Under the furniture

• Inside lots and Attics

Are Carpet Beetles Dangerous to Humans?

Carpet beetles do not bite or spread diseases, but can still affect your health. Their hairy larvae can cause:

• Skin irritation and allergic reactions

• Respiratory discomfort in sensitive people 

If you or your family is facing a mysterious allergic reaction or rashes, it might be time to check your soft furnishings. 

Conclusion

Carpet beetles may be small, but they can cause significant damage to your fabrics and carpets if not addressed promptly. It’s essential to know how to identify them and take action quickly to prevent costly harm to your belongings. Whether you choose to eliminate carpet beetles on your own using chemical or natural methods, or you decide to call in professionals, taking a proactive approach is crucial for maintaining a beetle-free home.