Carpet beetles aren't the most intimidating beetles you could come across in Fort Worth. But that doesn't mean you want them in your home. These oval-shaped beetles are often black, white, and yellow. Once they make their way into homes, carpet beetles are difficult to eliminate. Find out how they get into your home and what you can do to keep them from returning.
Do You Have Carpet Beetles?
If you have small beetles in your Fort Worth home, there are a few potential culprits. One of the more common home-invading beetles is the carpet beetle. But you might not see an actual beetle; often, people see the larvae instead of the full-grown adults. Carpet beetle larvae are small brown or black creatures with dense hairs. If you look closely at one, you might notice three golden hairs on its abdomen. Generally, the larvae measure 2.5 centimeters long and are larger than the adults. You might not see adults or larvae, but you can be sure you'll eventually find signs of their presence. Because beetle larvae eat bedding and other fabric, they leave a trail of destruction in your home. You might find holes in your comforter or favorite jacket.
Why You Have Them
When you find cockroaches or other Fort Worth pests, you might understand why they're in your home. Roaches, ants, and rodents seek out dirty homes with scraps of food available. But what about carpet beetles? While they also prefer cluttered homes, carpet beetle larvae eat wool, still, and leather. If you have fur, animal hair, or felt in your home, carpet beetle larvae will thrive. Of course, carpet beetle larvae don't just end up in your home. They come from eggs, which adult beetles lay when they enter your home. The eggs are usually in your carpet or on your furniture. At times, the beetles fly into your home through open windows and doors. They may also enter as hitchhikers on used clothing or cut flowers. If you're not cautious about what you bring into your home, you could have carpet beetles.
Carpet Beetle Prevention
While carpet beetles aren't dangerous, they are damaging. If you want to protect your property from carpet beetles, you need to be proactive by doing the following:
Check Used Items For Carpet Beetles And Larvae
When you buy used items, check them for holes, eggs, and larvae. Wash used fabrics before bringing them into your home.
Check Screens
If you enjoy keeping your windows open, you need to make sure your screens keep flying beetles out. Check for rips in your screens and repair them as necessary. In some cases, you may need to replace the screen entirely.
Don't Prop Doors Open
The longer you leave your doors propped open, the more likely you will invite carpet beetles inside. If you find it necessary to keep your doors open, install a screen door.
Vacuum Your Floors
Because carpet beetles enjoy laying eggs in carpet, you may be able to protect your home by vacuuming frequently. This won't be 100% effective because there are other places for adults to lay eggs. However, it could eliminate some of the beetle eggs.
Work With A Professional
Due to their diet, carpet beetles are hard to eliminate. Unlike most other local pests, carpet beetles don't need food scraps to survive. Their larvae can thrive without you. If you have a carpet beetle infestation or want to prevent them, the best thing you can do is call our professionals. Contact All-Safe Pest & Termite to learn more.