Carpet beetles might be tiny, but the damage they cause can be surprisingly big. From chewing through natural fibres to causing skin irritation, these oval-shaped insects are a nuisance and a sign that something deeper is going on inside your home.
Whether you’ve spotted a few crawling near your window sills, or you’re finding patchy damage on clothes or furniture, learning how to get rid of carpet beetles is the first step to reclaiming your space. In this guide, Allstate Pest Control walks you through everything from carpet beetle larvae to black carpet beetles. Additionally, we’ll see how to treat carpet beetles the right way.
What Are Carpet Beetles and Why Are They a Problem?
Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects that belong to the family Dermestidae. In South Australia, the most common types include:
- Varied carpet beetles
- Furniture carpet beetles
- Black carpet beetles
Adult carpet beetles are often seen near window sills and light sources, but it’s the carpet beetle larvae you really have to watch out for. They’re the ones that cause most of the damage by feeding on natural fibres like wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, and even animal hair.
Signs of a Carpet Beetle Infestation
If you notice any of the following, you could be dealing with a growing carpet beetle infestation:
- Shedding skins or “husks” from larvae
- Irregular holes in natural-fibre clothing, upholstery or rugs
- Live or dead carpet beetles near windows, doors, or vents
- Small clusters of carpet beetle eggs tucked into dark corners, spider webs, or behind upholstered furniture
- Signs of skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Household pests like carpet beetles are considered common pests in South Australian homes, especially during spring and summer when adult carpet beetles are actively breeding.
Understanding the Life Cycle of Carpet Beetles
To truly understand how to get rid of carpet beetles permanently, it helps to know their life cycle:
- Egg Stage: Females lay eggs in dark, undisturbed areas like inside air vents, under carpets, or in bird nests and dead animals.
- Larval Stage: Carpet beetle larvae hatch and begin feeding immediately on larval food such as dead insects, pet hair, wool, and even crumbs in the carpet.
- Pupal Stage: After weeks or months of feeding, larvae pupate in hidden spots.
- Adult Stage: Adult beetles emerge, usually to mate and find new egg-laying spots. Adults don’t do much damage, but they can still attract carpet beetles into your home.
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How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles Naturally
If you’re looking for how to get rid of carpet beetles naturally, that’s fine and you’re not alone. Many South Australian families prefer low-impact methods before resorting to chemical or professional treatments. Here’s where to begin:
1. Vacuum Regularly and Thoroughly
Start by vacuuming every surface possible, especially:
- Under rugs and carpets
- Around furniture joints
- Inside wardrobes and closets
- Along baseboards and skirting
Pay extra attention to areas where larvae prefer – dark, undisturbed zones. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outdoors to avoid reinfestation.
2. Use Hot Water and Steam Cleaning
Hot water washes (above 60°C) are effective in handling both carpet beetle eggs and larvae. For non-washable surfaces, consider steam cleaning rugs, curtains, and furniture.
3. Seal Cracks and Use Insect Screens
Block out future beetles by sealing entry points and installing insect screens over vents and windows. Also, check for and remove any nearby bird nests or dead insects, which can be hidden sources of infestation.
4. Store Clothes and Fabrics Properly
Store off-season clothing in airtight containers, and avoid keeping natural fibres exposed for long periods, especially in storage rooms, lofts, or garages.
How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles Permanently
When natural methods aren’t enough, professional treatment may be necessary to get rid of carpet beetles completely. Here’s a multi-step approach that can help:
1. Identify and Remove Sources
Locate and remove anything that could serve as a larval food source: old wool blankets, dead skin or pet hair buildup, or infested items from secondhand furniture.
2. Targeted Use of Insecticide Sprays
In South Australia, registered low-toxicity insecticide sprays can be used to treat areas where carpet beetles lay their eggs or where larvae feed. Always follow label instructions and never apply directly to clothing or bedding.
3. Professional Pest Control Services
If the infestation persists or spreads quickly, calling in carpet beetle experts like Allstate Pest Control can save you time and stress. With years of experience managing carpet beetle control in South Australian homes and businesses, our team uses safe, effective solutions tailored to your situation, especially when dealing with stubborn black carpet beetles or recurring outbreaks.
Preventing Future Carpet Beetle Infestations
Once you’ve dealt with the problem, don’t stop there. Prevent carpet beetles from coming back with these ongoing steps:
- Vacuum regularly, especially in corners, under furniture, and behind storage areas
- Avoid clutter that lets larvae enjoy dark spots to thrive
- Keep pet bedding clean and washed weekly
- Store wool, leather, and silk items in sealed containers
- Inspect secondhand furniture before bringing it home
- Check light fixtures, as adult carpet beetles are attracted to light
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get rid of carpet beetles?
The quickest way is to combine deep cleaning, hot water or steam cleaning, and targeted pest control treatments. If the infestation is widespread, professional services from Allstate Pest Control can speed up results.
Will vacuuming get rid of carpet beetles?
Vacuuming alone may not completely get rid of carpet beetles, but it’s essential for removing larvae, eggs, and potential food sources. It should be part of your ongoing prevention routine.
What do carpet beetles hate the most?
They dislike disruption, hot water, light, and clean environments. They also avoid strong-smelling natural deterrents like cedarwood and eucalyptus, though these work best alongside cleaning and sealing.
How do I know if I have a carpet beetle infestation?
Watch for signs like damaged natural fabrics, cast-off larvae skins, adult beetles around window sills, or small brown or black bugs crawling indoors.
Can I get rid of carpet beetles without chemicals?
Yes, using steam cleaning, vacuuming, and hot water washing can reduce small infestations. But for larger or persistent cases, professional carpet beetle control is more effective.
Trust South Australia’s Pest Prevention Experts
Carpet beetles are sneaky and ruinous, but with the right approach, you can protect your home. Whether you’re dealing with a mild case of furniture carpet beetles or a full-blown carpet beetle infestation, Allstate Pest Control is here to help. Call us today for a free inspection, quote and advice tailored to your home or business.
