Because carpet beetles are active in multiple small hidden areas throughout your home, it can be very difficult to get rid of carpet beetle infestations. A qualified pest control expert is the best way to beat your beetle problem. However, there are some things you can do before help arrives to lessen the problem and damage:

1.      Use a vacuum to remove the carpet beetles you can see.  Immediately remove the carpet beetles with a vacuum. This includes the adult that look like typical beetles, as well as the larvae which look like tiny hairy caterpillars.

2.      While you have the vacuum out, suck up all the pet hair or fur hiding under furniture and in corners.

3.      Immediately seal and throw out the vacuum bag afterward.

4.      Since adult carpet beetles do not stay in one area very long and may have laid eggs in numerous places throughout your home, you will need to treat all of your carpets, area rugs, upholstery, draperies, linens and stored clothing.

5. Discard, dry clean or wash items that show signs of carpet beetle damage. Also include any nearby items that may be hiding tiny eggs and larvae you may not be able to see.

6.      Wash clothing and machine washable items using soap and the hottest water you can.

7.      You can also place items that cannot be washed in a dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.

8.      Have your rugs professionally cleaned, or rent a steam cleaner and do it yourself.

9.      Larvae are usually deep within fabric, so make sure to get into every nook and cranny of upholstered furniture.

To prevent future carpet beetle activity, vacuum your carpets regularly and thoroughly, wash area rugs and make sure to clean up pet fur as often as possible.