Carpet Beetles: Tiny Larvae That Damage Carpets, Fabrics and Wool

Carpet beetles are small and hide well, but their larvae can ruin natural fibres.

The short answer

Carpet beetle larvae are small, bristly and brown, found in carpets, wool, silk, feathers and fur, and in stored food. Adults are tiny, rounded and often found on windowsills. Vacuum thoroughly, wash or dry-clean items, clean under furniture, store in sealed containers and call a professional for heavy cases.

Signs

• Irregular holes in fabrics and carpets.
• Small bristly larvae and shed skins.
• Adult beetles on windowsills.

Control

1. Vacuum carpets, edges and under furniture.
2. Wash or dry-clean affected items.
3. Clean cupboards and shelves.
4. Store natural fibres in sealed containers.
5. Seek help for severe infestations.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Do carpet beetles bite?

No, but larvae hairs can irritate.

Are they moths?

No.

Where do they come from?

Outdoors, flowers or birds' nests.

Do sprays work?

Cleaning matters more.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on pantry and fabric pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full pantry and fabric pest control guide for Bangalore.