At first, you may think you have moths in your home. But if you are finding damaged clothes, carpet, upholstery and other items, it most likely is carpet beetles.  These little pests are more common than most homeowners realize. They can be very destructive, and to make it worse, they are quite difficult to control. You may find one or two beetles or the evidence they leave behind, but the problem can grow if not handled properly and quickly.

Besides feasting on your belongings, carpet beetle larvae shed small hairs which can cause allergies. Infestations of these pests have been linked to the spread of infectious diseases, like Anthrax.

Part of the problem with controlling carpet beetles is that they live in many areas of a home and eat more than carpet. They consume anything containing organic fibers and organic products. Here is a sampling of the preferred carpet beetle buffet:

Household Items

• Carpets – Most synthetic carpets contain some organic materials
• Rugs
• Drapery
• Furniture
• Clothing – especially cotton, silk and wool
• Household linens – tablecloths, dishtowels, sheets, towels

In the Pantry

• Cereal
• Corn
• Flour
• Grains
• Nuts
• Pasta
• Seeds
• Birdseed
• Pet Food

Misc.

• Hair (pet or human)
• Animal Fur
• Animal hides
• Taxidermy animals
• Dead animal carcasses