Carpet beetles are tiny round beetles, often patterned in black, white and yellow, but it is their larvae that cause the damage. The larvae are small, hairy and brown, and they eat wool, silk, fur, feathers and leather. Holes in woollen jumpers, bare patches along the edges of wool carpet and damage to rugs under furniture are the usual signs. Older homes in the Northern Suburbs with wool carpets and full wardrobes see them often.
The adults fly in through open windows in spring and are drawn to light, so you may see them on windowsills. They lay eggs in dark, quiet places where larvae can feed without being disturbed, like under beds, behind couches, along skirting boards and in wardrobes and drawers. Shed larval skins that look like tiny brown husks are another clue.
- Inspection of carpets, rugs, wardrobes and drawers
- Treatment of carpet edges and under heavy furniture
- Treatment of wardrobes, drawers and storage cupboards
- Dusting of roof spaces and wall voids where adults breed
- Advice on storing woollens and cleaning stored clothes
The crew we book treats the places larvae feed and hide. Before the visit, vacuum carpets well, especially along the edges and under furniture, and wash or dry-clean affected clothes. Empty wardrobe floors and the bottom drawers so they can be treated. Store woollens in sealed bags or tubs once they are clean, and check old rugs, cushions and stored blankets for larvae.
Spring is the busiest time for carpet beetles, so a visit early in the season can save a lot of damage. Call 03 7053 9823 to book carpet beetle treatment in the Northern Suburbs.