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Although there are many different species of carpet beetles, the adults of all species are small, oval-shaped beetles about 1/8 inch long. The most common species, the black carpet beetle is shiny black. Adults of other common species are brightly colored in various patterns of white, brown, yellow and orange. The adults feed on flowers, but are often seen indoors around light fixtures and windows, indicating that a larval infestation is present somewhere within the home.
The larvae of carpet beetles are about 1/4 inch long and densely covered with hairs or bristles. Only the larval stage feeds on fabric and causes damage. they feed on a variety of animal-based materials including wood, fur, silk, feathers and leather. Items commonly infested include wool sweaters, coats blankets, carpets, down pillows and comforters, and upholstered furniture. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and rayon are rarely attacked unless they are heavily soiled with food stains or body oils.
They prefer to feed in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, withing boxes where woolens and furs are stored, along and under edges or carpeting, underneath upholstered furniture, and in air ducts where they feed on lint, pet hair and other bits of debris. They also have been known to infest animal nests, including bee and wasp nests. This can make finding and controlling them difficult.
The best control is prevention. Thorough, routine vacuuming and cleaning will remove not only the food sources, but also some beetles, larvae and eggs. Pay special attention to areas under furniture and rugs, cracks, around baseboards, air ducts, and other dark, undisturbed locations. Rugs and carpets should be regularly cleaned and any spills removed. Woolens and other susceptible fabrics should be dry cleaned or laundered before being stored for long periods. Articles to be stored should then be packed with mothballs or flakes in tight-fitting containers.
Call our office for a treatment of infested areas. Remember control of carpet beetles requires patience but we will work with you to get to the root of your problem.
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