Carpet Beetles In Virginia

What Do Carpet Beetles Look Like In Virginia?

Carpet beetles are frequently found in residential and commercial spaces and are famous for damaging clothing, carpets, and other fabric items. Christiansburg, Virginia is known for four specific types of carpet beetles:

Common Carpet Beetles (Anthrenus scrophulariae)

Adult common carpet beetles are oval-shaped and range from 2.5-3.8 mm long. They have black heads concealed mainly by a prothorax. They have a black thorax and elytra with uniquely patterned scales. As the common carpet beetle ages, some or all of its scales may disappear and become discolored.

Varied Carpet Beetles (Anthrenus verbasci)

Adult varied carpet beetles are black with brown and white patterns, with dark yellow scales on their elytra (wing covers). These beetles are about 3.2-4.8 mm long. Varied carpet beetles resemble miniature ladybird beetles (ladybugs), except with a black shell with yellow spots. Varied carpet beetle larvae look brown and hairy.

Furniture Carpet Beetles (Anthrenus scrophulariae)

Furniture carpet beetle adults are rounded, ranging from 2-3.5 mm long. They are black with yellow and white scales on their backs and legs, bearing thick yellow scales. Their colors may vary but, unlike the long, narrow scales of other carpet beetles, furniture carpet beetles have oval or round scales.

Black Carpet Beetles (Attagenus unicolor)

Adult black carpet beetles are dark brown to black and range from 3.2-4.8 mm long. Black carpet beetle's larvae generally have long bodies with bristles at their end.

Are Carpet Beetles Dangerous?

The carpet beetle’s bristles can cause skin irritation as they brush against hosts while feeding, which can look like bites. While such reactions are rare, carpet beetles can cause dermatitis upon contact with shed larval skins and itchy allergic reactions in people and pets. They generally cause property damage in larval stages as they create holes in fabrics and carpets. Carpet beetles can also contaminate food sources.

Why Do I Have A Carpet Beetle Problem?

Carpet beetles enter homes through cracks in the exterior, such as in the foundation and around doors and windows. Carpet beetles can also be brought into the home by items already infested. Their larvae feed on dead skin cells, which makes beds attractive.

How Do I Get Rid Of Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles are very difficult to control as they forage for food in dark places, quickly spreading throughout homes. There are several steps to take if you discover carpet beetles in your home:

• Wash infested items with hot water.

• Send natural fiber rugs to professional cleaners.

• Conduct a thorough cleaning and vacuum where carpet beetles are found, especially on fiber surfaces.

• Eliminate carpet beetle food sources (dead insects, hair, lint, spider webs, wasp nests, etc.).

• Before bringing cut flowers into the home, inspect them for adult beetles.

• Ensure that entryways (vents, window screens, and doors) are closed.

Does All Pest Control & Solutions Have Any Carpet Beetles Prevention Tips?

There are numerous ways to prevent carpet beetles:

• Keep cracks and crevices sealed in the foundation and entryways.

• Vacuum and dust to eliminate dust and hair in the home.

• Do not purchase dry goods with tears in the packaging.

• Store cloth items made of natural fibers in sealed containers.

Despite the best of do-it-yourself efforts, carpet beetles remain very difficult to control. Trusting carpet beetle elimination to All Pest Control and Solutions is the most effective method. We offer budget-friendly home solutions to keep your home a place where you can feel safe. Want to learn more? Contact us today so that we can get you on the road to freedom from carpet beetles.