Carpet beetles may be small, but these pests can wreak havoc on your home if left unchecked. From their larvae munching on natural fibers to adults invading stored food, an infestation can be challenging to manage without the right plan.
Whether you’re spotting signs of larvae in your closets or noticing adult beetles on your windowsills, here’s a guide to eliminating carpet beetles in Louisiana and keeping your home pest-free.
Key Takeaways
- Carpet beetles can cause damage by feeding on natural fibers and are identified by larvae, shed skins, and adult beetles.
- Removing carpet beetles may require sealing entry points and using treatments for severe infestations.
- Preventing future infestations may involve cleaning and storing natural fibers in sealed containers.
- Pest control services offer comprehensive solutions for severe carpet beetle problems.
HOW TO GET RID OF CARPET BEETLES
Getting rid of carpet beetles needs a step-by-step approach to ensure no area is overlooked. Here’s how to identify and tackle the problem effectively:
1. Identify Signs of Carpet Beetles
Before diving into cleaning and treatment, identify the signs of infestations where carpet beetles are active.
Look for:
- Larvae or Shed Skins: Bristly carpet beetle larvae leave behind shed skins near baseboards, closets, or upholstered furniture.
- Damage to Natural Fibers: Small holes in wool carpets, blankets, or upholstery.
- Adult Carpet Beetles: Tiny oval-shaped beetles, typically light brown, black, or patterned, often found near windowsills or light sources.
- Lint and Pet Hair Accumulation: These materials can attract larvae and provide a food source.
Inspect baseboards, cracks, and natural-fiber items thoroughly to pinpoint the infestation areas.
2. Deep Clean Affected Areas
Once you’ve identified the hotspots, vacuum thoroughly, especially in crevices, baseboards, and around upholstery.
For an added level of cleaning, consider steam cleaning, as the high heat effectively kills larvae and eggs on contact.
3. Wash Infested Items
Wash linens, clothing, and blankets in hot water and dry them on high heat to remove larvae and eggs. For non-washable items, freeze them for at least 48 hours.
4. Seal Entry Points
Reinforce removing infestation by sealing gaps, cracks, and crevices around doors, windows, and baseboards. Check attic spaces and closets, as carpet beetles thrive in hidden areas.
5. Apply Natural Remedies
Use diatomaceous earth around baseboards and under carpets to target larvae. Essential oils like cedarwood or lavender can be sprayed in closets or on fabrics as repellents.
6. Use Targeted Products Safely
For severe infestations, products like boric acid can help. Apply it sparingly around infested areas and vacuum thoroughly afterward. Sticky traps can also capture adult beetles near entry points or closets.
HOW TO PREVENT FUTURE CARPET BEETLE INFESTATIONS
To keep carpet beetles at bay and protect your home, take these proactive measures as homeowners:
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently to remove lint, pet hair, and food sources for larvae.
- Store items made of natural fibers in sealed containers or garment bags.
- Always check thrifted furniture, rugs, or clothing for signs of carpet beetles before bringing them into your home.
- Keep screens intact and seal gaps to prevent new infestations.
WHEN TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR
If your DIY efforts to control carpet beetles haven’t worked, it’s time to call in a pest control company.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we provide quick and effective services to get rid of carpet beetles and keep your home pest-free. With same-day appointments available across southeastern Louisiana, we’ll help you reclaim your space and protect your belongings. Contact us today for a free consultation.
