If you’ve spotted small beetles crawling in your home or noticed damage to your clothing, carpets, or upholstery, you might have a carpet beetle problem. In New Orleans, these pests thrive thanks to the warm, humid climate that makes Louisiana a haven for many types of pests.
Let’s dive into how to identify, prevent, and handle a carpet beetle infestation to keep your home pest-free.
Key Takeaways
- Carpet beetle trouble usually starts with their larvae, not the adults. These pests love to munch on wool, silk, and other natural fibers.
- Common infestation signs include shed skins, fabric damage, and larvae or adult beetles in attics, basements, or closets.
- Preventing beetles is all about good storage habits, sealing up cracks, and checking secondhand items before bringing them inside.
- When DIY methods fall short, pest control services are ready to help with local expertise and thorough treatments.
WHAT ARE CARPET BEETLES?
Carpet beetles are small insects that feed on natural fibers, animal products, and even dead insects. While adult carpet beetles are typically harmless, their larvae are the ones causing damage.
These pests are commonly found in homes across Louisiana, including New Orleans, and can destroy natural fibers like wool, silk, and feathers if left untreated. Some people may even experience allergies or asthma symptoms triggered by exposure to carpet beetle larvae, making early prevention even more important.
Signs of a Carpet Beetle Infestation
- Damage to Natural Fibers: Check carpets, wool clothing, and upholstery for signs of feeding. You’ll notice irregular holes or worn patches.
- Larvae Presence: Carpet beetle larvae are small, fuzzy, and light to dark brown. They might appear in closets, attics, or basements where natural fibers are stored.
- Adult Carpet Beetles: These are small and oval, often found near windows as they’re attracted to light.
- Shed Skins: Look for shed skins, as larvae molt as they grow.
HOW TO PREVENT CARPET BEETLE INFESTATIONS
Keeping carpet beetles at bay starts with good housekeeping and proper storage of susceptible materials:
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Prevent adult beetles from entering your home by sealing gaps around windows and doors.
- Store Items Properly: Use sealed plastic bags or bins to store seasonal clothing and natural fiber items.
- Inspect Secondhand Items: Check thrifted furniture, rugs, and clothing for signs of carpet beetles before bringing them into your home.
- Remove Food Sources: Carpet beetle larvae feed on organic materials, including spider webs and dead insects. Keeping your home clean reduces their food supply.
HOW TO GET RID OF CARPET BEETLES
If you suspect an infestation, taking immediate action can help protect your belongings:
1. Deep Cleaning
Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and other areas where larvae may hide. Wash clothing, linens, and curtains in hot water.
2. Address Infested Areas
Inspect closets, basements, and attics for larvae. Remove and treat any affected items. If the infestation is severe, it might be time to consider professional intervention.
3. Use Professional Pest Control Services
Local companies, like LaJaunie’s Pest Control, specialize in pest management tailored to Louisiana’s unique environment. They can offer a Healthy Home Package that covers beetle control and treatment, ensuring the thorough and safe removal of carpet beetles from your home.
WHEN TO CALL IN THE EXPERTS
While DIY methods can help manage minor carpet beetle infestations, professional pest control services offer the most effective and lasting solution.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we provide same-day and Saturday services in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the surrounding areas. We offer a retreat guarantee, so you can rest assured that your home will stay pest-free.
Don’t let carpet beetles ruin your belongings or peace of mind. Contact us today for a free quote on carpet beetle treatment and prevention. Our exterminators are here to help homeowners in New Orleans enjoy a pest-free environment all year round.