Pest Guide
Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetles are small insects whose larvae can feed on a variety of natural fibres and animal-based materials found around the home. While adult carpet beetles are often seen near windows or light sources, it is the larvae that are responsible for damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery and other susceptible materials.
Common signs include:
- Small adult beetles around windows and window sills
- Hairy or bristly larvae in carpets, cupboards or storage areas
- Shed larval skins
- Irregular damage to carpets or rugs
- Damage to clothing and natural-fibre fabrics
- Activity around skirting boards and carpet edges
- Damage in dark or undisturbed storage areas
Where Do Carpet Beetles Hide?
Carpet beetle larvae prefer sheltered and relatively undisturbed areas where suitable materials or food sources are available. They may be found:
- Along carpet edges and beneath furniture
- Inside wardrobes and cupboards
- Beneath rugs
- Around skirting boards
- In upholstered furniture
- Among stored clothing and fabrics
- In roof spaces or other concealed areas
- Around accumulations of hair, lint and other organic material
What Attracts Carpet Beetles?
Carpet beetle larvae can feed on materials containing natural animal fibres and other organic matter. Potential food sources around a home include:
- Wool and wool-blend carpets
- Natural-fibre clothing
- Rugs
- Upholstery
- Feathers and animal hair
- Fur and other animal-based materials
- Dead insects
- Accumulations of hair and lint
- Stored fabrics and textiles
How Can You Reduce Carpet Beetle Activity?
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly, particularly along edges and beneath furniture
- Regularly clean wardrobes, cupboards and storage areas
- Remove accumulations of hair, lint and dead insects
- Inspect susceptible clothing and fabrics before storage
- Store vulnerable items in sealed containers where practical
- Check rugs and furniture in areas that are rarely disturbed
- Clean affected areas thoroughly if larvae or shed skins are discovered
- Inspect second-hand rugs, furniture and textiles before bringing them indoors
When Is Professional Treatment Needed?
Professional pest control may be appropriate when carpet beetle larvae are repeatedly found, damage is occurring to carpets or other materials, or activity appears to be established across multiple areas of the property.
Because larvae can remain concealed beneath furniture, along carpet edges and within other protected areas, identifying and addressing the source of an infestation can be difficult. Professional inspection and treatment can target affected and potential harbourage areas to help control established carpet beetle activity.
