Carpet beetles are common household pests, and they get a bad rap for damaging carpets, clothing, and other fabrics. But can carpet beetles bite?
That’s a common question, and the short answer is no. Carpet beetles don’t bite, but their presence can cause skin irritation that many people mistake for bites.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these unwanted guests, from what they look like and what causes infestations to the potential harm they cause, their life cycle, and how to get rid of them. We’ll also take a closer look at the skin irritation that’s often mistaken for a carpet beetles bite, plus how to control and prevent carpet beetle infestations.
Identifying Carpet Beetles and Recognizing Infestation Signs
If you suspect you’ve been bitten by carpet beetles, it’s a good idea to know what they look like and what to look for.
Identifying Carpet Beetles
Adult carpet beetles are small, generally from 1.5 to 4 mm in length. They can be different colors and have different patterns. Two common types are the varied carpet beetle and the black carpet beetle.
Carpet beetle larvae are slightly larger, up to 5 mm long. They’re sometimes described as looking like “woolly bears” because they’re covered in bristles or hairs.
Recognizing Signs of Infestation
The damage done by carpet beetle larvae is a good way to determine if you have an infestation. Larvae can chew holes in fabrics, carpets, upholstery, and clothing.
You may also see shed skins and fecal pellets. These shed skins and pellets can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Other signs of carpet beetle presence include seeing live beetles, larvae, or eggs in dark, undisturbed areas of your home.
Where do carpet beetle infestations come from?
Carpet beetles can find their way into your home through tiny cracks and openings. They can hitch a ride on your clothing or come in on infested items. Adult carpet beetles can also fly in through open windows and doors.
Used furniture, rugs, and clothing are notorious for harboring carpet beetles and their eggs. Flowers and plants that you bring inside can also introduce the pests to your home.
Once they’re in, carpet beetles head straight for the things they love most:
- Natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, and feathers
- Dirty carpets and upholstery, which are full of shed hair, dead insects, and skin cells
- Food sources like dried pasta, grains, and other stored foods
Getting rid of carpet beetles for good requires diligence, but it can be done.
Carpet Beetles and Skin Irritation: Understanding the Connection
Let’s be clear: Carpet beetles don’t bite. If you’ve got itchy welts on your skin, chances are good that carpet beetles aren’t the direct cause. But they can cause skin irritation.
The real culprit is contact with the bristly hairs (called setae) on the carpet beetle larvae, along with the shed skins and fecal pellets they leave behind. It’s gross, but that’s what causes “carpet beetle dermatitis.”
Symptoms of Carpet Beetle Dermatitis
The rash typically appears as small, itchy bumps or welts. Unlike insect bites, which are often isolated, carpet beetle rashes tend to show up in clusters or lines, like something brushed against your skin.
What To Do If You Have A Carpet Beetle Rash
If you suspect you have carpet beetle dermatitis, here’s what to do:
- Gently cleanse: Wash the affected area with mild soap and water.
- Relief measures: Apply calamine lotion or antihistamine creams to relieve the itching. Cold compresses can also help. For widespread irritation, try an oatmeal bath.
- When to seek medical help: If your symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, it’s time to see a doctor.
The carpet beetle life cycle: From egg to adult
Carpet beetles go through four stages of development: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Understanding these stages can help you better manage an infestation.
Egg stage
Carpet beetle eggs are white or creamy in color and extremely tiny, about a quarter to half a millimeter in size. You’ll typically find them in corners, around skirting boards, and in other out-of-the-way spots. It usually takes between one and four weeks for the eggs to hatch.
Larval stage
Carpet beetle larvae can grow to be about 5 mm long. They’re sometimes called “woolly bears” because of their hairy appearance.
The larvae are the stage where carpet beetles do the most damage. They feed on fabrics and other materials, leaving behind holes and shed skins as they grow and molt.
Pupal stage
The pupal stage is a transition phase between larva and adult. The pupa develops inside a protective shell or casing.
Adult stage
Adult carpet beetles vary in size, but the varied carpet beetle, one of the most common types, is typically between 2 and 4 mm long.
Unlike the larvae, adult carpet beetles don’t feed on fabrics. Instead, they typically feed on pollen and nectar.
Adult carpet beetles usually live for about 3 to 4 weeks.
Preventing and controlling carpet beetle infestations
Once you’ve gotten rid of carpet beetles, you’ll want to make sure they don’t come back. Here are some ways to prevent infestations:
- Store food properly. Keep all food in airtight containers to prevent carpet beetles from getting into it.
- Install bug nets. Use insect screens over windows and doors to keep carpet beetles from getting inside.
- Inspect plants. Carefully check any plants or flowers before bringing them inside.
- Seal cracks and gaps. Seal up any cracks and gaps in your walls and floors.
- Clean regularly. Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where carpet beetles are likely to be found.
If you find carpet beetles, here’s how to get rid of them:
- Vacuum. Thoroughly vacuum any areas where you’ve seen carpet beetles.
- Wash and freeze. Wash clothes in hot water and freeze any items that might be infested.
- Use insecticides. Apply a residual insecticide to cracks and crevices where carpet beetles might be hiding. You can also use desiccant dusts.
When to call a professional
If you have a large or persistent carpet beetle infestation, it’s best to call a professional pest control company. A professional will be able to provide a thorough and effective treatment plan based on the specific nature of your infestation.
In Closing
Let’s recap what we’ve covered about carpet beetles. While they don’t actually bite, their presence can lead to skin irritation and allergic reactions. Plus, they can cause significant damage to fabrics, carpets, and other household materials. That’s why prevention and control are so important.
If you suspect you have a carpet beetle infestation, consider contacting a professional pest control service. They can identify the source of the problem and provide effective and safe treatment options.
Ultimately, the best approach is to take proactive measures. Regular cleaning, sealing potential entry points, and proper food storage can go a long way in preventing carpet beetles from making your home their own.