What are Carpet Beetles?
Carpet beetles are as annoying as they are varied. Technically, there are many different beetle species that can be considered carpet beetles or common house beetles. But you don’t need to talk to a variety of different pest control companies to get rid of them.
Come to Alta Pest Control in Washington, Kansas, Oklahoma, Virginia, and Texas. Our carpet beetle control specialists can create a plan to get rid of the beetles crawling around your home, regardless of their exact species. We are renowned for pest elimination methods that are safe for you, your family, and your pets, as well as for keeping our services competitively priced.
What Do Carpet Beetles Look Like?
As mentioned, carpet beetles can consist of a variety of different species. This might not be surprising since approximately 25% of all animal species are a type of beetle. However, “skin beetles” or Dermestidae are usually the most common carpet beetle that gets into homes in a number great enough to constitute an infestation.
What kinds of Carpet Beetles are there?
Carpet Beetles Damage Clothes and Furniture
Carpet beetles are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to clothes and furniture. Their larvae feed on natural fibers, such as wool, silk, and cotton, leading to holes and other forms of damage. If left untreated, carpet beetle infestations can result in costly repairs and replacements.
The damage caused by carpet beetles can be particularly troublesome for those who own valuable clothing or furniture. Their feeding habits can result in irreparable damage to delicate fabrics and materials, making preservation and restoration difficult or impossible. Prevention and early detection are crucial in avoiding these costly and frustrating situations.
To prevent carpet beetle damage, it's essential to regularly clean and vacuum carpets, furniture, and clothing, especially in areas where the beetles are most likely to thrive. Early detection of an infestation can also help prevent further damage and reduce the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
Carpet Beetles Cause Health Problems
Carpet beetles can pose a significant health risk to people who are allergic to them. The allergens produced by carpet beetles can cause a range of health problems, including skin irritation, itching, and respiratory issues such as asthma. These allergic reactions are typically caused by the tiny hairs or bristles on the beetle's body, which can become airborne and inhaled by people in the vicinity.
In addition to respiratory problems, some people may experience more severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is a life-threatening condition that can occur when the immune system overreacts to the presence of an allergen, causing a rapid drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, anaphylactic shock can be fatal.
To avoid the health risks associated with carpet beetles, it's important to take steps to prevent infestations and seek treatment if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction. This may include using allergen-proof bedding and mattress covers, vacuuming regularly, and seeking professional pest control services if necessary. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Carpet Beetles Contaminate Food
Carpet beetles are known to crawl into pantries in search of food. Once they find their way in, they can contaminate bags of cereal, pasta, crackers, and other dry goods. This can lead to a host of health problems, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to take steps to prevent carpet beetles from entering your pantry to avoid these issues.
