Some people love insects, while others cannot stand the sight of them. On the other hand, some people are specific about which insects they like and which ones they do not. When it comes to carpet beetles, they are not your friends but only foes. Even though they do not pose a direct threat to humans, they can eat away at your clothes.
The first step to controlling carpet beetles is knowing what they look like. For centuries, they have been mistaken for bed bugs. They have black bodies with orange/red stripes on their wings. Apart from a pair of wings, they have six legs and a pair of antennae. If you are worried about a carpet beetle infestation at home and are living in Portland, you can get connected with a good Portland pest control company today.
What are carpet beetles, and why are they called so?
Carpet beetles are a type of skin beetle that feed on dry carcasses of dead animals. Although they are typically found outdoors, they can invade homes and wreak havoc anywhere they can find a food source.
Since they have an interesting name, you might be curious to know where that comes from. Carpet beetles have a tendency to infest carpets. They lay their eggs in dense and deep fabric areas because that is what the larvae like to feed on. Carpets made from natural and not synthetic fibers serve as the perfect breeding grounds for carpet beetles.
How to prevent carpet beetles?
To prevent carpet beetles, here are some effective steps you can take:
- You should clean your pantry, furniture, and carpets regularly.
- If there are food items you use rarely, make sure to store them in air-tight containers.
- When you buy new furniture or flowers, be sure to inspect them for bugs.
- Check your home’s exterior for any openings or gaps that might invite these beetles.
- If you are bringing outdoor plants inside, check them for bugs.
- If you suspect an infestation on your property, inspect your clothes properly for larvae.
- Regularly vacuum and dust your home.
- Carpet beetles prefer dark spaces, so you can use bright colors to drive them away.
- Store all your food in the kitchen in tight containers.
Are carpet beetles a threat or dangerous?
While carpet beetles are not particularly dangerous, they can be a source of irritation. They feed on carpets, clothes, and anything made from animal fiber (such as wool, fur, and feathers). The larvae are also attracted to the oil produced on the human scalp. This is why they crawl up on the head when you are sleeping.
Not all, but some allergic people may develop skin rashes and experience itching from coming in contact with these bugs. If you are worried about an infestation, get pest control today.
Contact professional help today!
To tackle any issues related to carpet beetles, you must clean out your gardens and any entry points that allow these bugs to come inside. This can be easily done with the help of a professional pest control service provider.
