The carpet beetle, or anthrenus scrophulariae, may be small in size but it has a large appetite for synthetic fibres, including carpet, clothing and blankets. Growing up to five millimetres in length, this creature feeds off wools, silks and furs as well as feathers and other animal proteins that can be found in carpeted area and along floorboards. During the summer months carpet beetles are also fond of collecting pollen and nectar from external sources such as flowers. Image is provided below for display.
The carpet beetle larvae is an unwelcome visitor in many households, taking up residence in carpet fibers, clothing fabrics and other items like bedding. This common household pest is around 5mm long and gets sustenance from the animal proteins found in wool, silk and fur. Interestingly, carpet beetles also have wings which help them travel to new locations easily.
During summer months carpet beetles will feed on pollen and nectar outside of our homes as well, making them even harder to control. To avoid carpet beetle infestations it's important to regularly vacuum carpets, conduct regular inspections of clothing items, keep windows shut during spring and summer months when carpet beetles are active, and finally use appropriate carpet beetle control products when necessary.
Due to carpet beetles lay eggs which can go undetected in carpeted and uncleaned rooms, regular vacuuming can help greatly reduce egg and larvae numbers. When vacuuming, it is important to remember to reach the areas of a room that are often missed such as underneath beds and behind tall cupboards, as these smaller crevices are prime locations for carpet beetle eggs. To increase carpet beetle prevention efforts, using a steam cleaner can be highly effective as well.
Additionally, animal-based clothing such as wool and fur should be routinely inspected and washed regularly. Furthermore, it is important to keep an eye on any stored clothing so larvae are not allowed to spread. If carpet beetles are still causing problems in the home, freezing effected items of clothing for at least two days or having them professionally dry cleaned may help with extermination efforts. In worse cases, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for expert advice on treatment.