How to identify and get rid of black carpet beetles
Tiny black beetle with a big appetite!
If you've ever noticed an abundance of small dark beetles scurrying around in your carpet, then you've experienced black carpet beetles.
These tiny beetles love munching on carpets, clothing, or any other animal-based materials or fibers. This can include leather, silk, fur, feathers, wool, and even hair! They've also been known to infest kitchen cabinets looking for dried meat or dead insects.
Even though they might be small, they can create a big mess if left unchecked. However, it's not the adult beetles that are the problem. It's their babies that do all the chewing. Once a female lays eggs, it only takes 1-2 weeks for the eggs to hatch and the larvae to start doing damage to your favorite materials.
Even though black carpet beetles are found throughout the US, they thrive in the less humid Northeastern area. The larvae don't like light, so they may be hiding in warm, dark places that you won't be able to notice until it's too late. The adults, however, are attracted to lights and can be seen around light fixtures or windows.
How to identify black carpet beetles
Black carpet beetles are small, dark insects found in various parts of your home. They have shiny black or dark brown bodies and are oval, tapering toward the back. They don't have any bristles or hairs like other kinds of carpet beetles.
The larvae, which do most of the damage, are long and narrow, with short bristles all over their body. They can be found in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in the corners of your rooms.
You might have an infestation if you notice damaged fabrics, unusual shed larval skins, or small fecal pellets. Also, look for adult beetles on window sills or around lights.
How big are black carpet beetles?
The adults are typically 1/8 to 3/16 inch long.
What other pest looks like a black carpet beetle?
Many small dark beetles can look like black carpet beetles, but the real confusion can be from the damage done to fabrics. The damage can look similar to that done by clothes moths or varied carpet beetles.
Where do black carpet beetles live?
Black carpet beetles are found throughout the US, but they are most common in the northeastern region.
Look for them in dark, warm areas of your home, such as closets, drawers, and carpets, and sometimes in pantries, where they infest dry goods.
How to get rid of black carpet beetles
Sometimes, you discover damage to your favorite clothing, under a couch, or on the carpet, and it's too late to do anything. To clean up the mess, you should vacuum the damaged area, wash or dry clean any suspected clothing, and remove any damaged materials that are ruined.
However, you'll also want to take precautions to prevent this from happening again. This can include:
- Regular cleaning: Vacuum carpets, furniture, and drapes regularly to remove larvae and eggs.
- Proper storage: Store clothing and fabrics in airtight containers to prevent beetle access.
- Insect barrier: To prevent future infestations, consider using an insect barrier in and around your home. Pestie offers a pro-grade DIY solution that only takes minutes to apply!
Treat black carpet beetles with Pestie
If you're still having trouble keeping black carpet beetles away, the best option is to use a pro-grade, effective pest control solution like Pestie.
Pestie is a do-it-yourself pest control solution that's specially designed to keep black carpet beetles and other pests away from your home.
With Pestie, you can rest easy knowing that your living space is protected and free of creepy crawlies. And the best part? It's designed for people, pets, and the planet, so you can say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to peace of mind!
- Save hundreds compared to traditional annual pest plans
- People, pet, and planet-friendly
- Pro-grade customized formulas
Quick facts
- Scientific name
Attagenus Unicolor
- Colors
Shiny brown or black
- Life span
A few months to three years
- Diet
Natural animal fibers such as leather, fur, wool, silk, or feathers. Also, dead insects, cereals, and dried meat.
How dangerous are Black Carpet Beetles?
Low danger risk
While they don't sting, bite, or transmit diseases, they can cause significant damage to personal belongings and trigger allergies.
The black carpet beetle is originally from Europe and isn't a major pest. However, it was accidentally introduced into the US in the 19th century.