Carpet beetles can become pests in the home if left unchecked. They can cause severe damage to bedding, clothes, carpets, and upholstered furniture if left unattended. Here are some factors that cause carpet beetles:
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Infested items: Carpet beetles can enter the home through an open door or window or on an item that is already infested when it is brought inside, like an item of furniture, a plant, or on fur. Taxidermy animals are also a popular hotspot for carpet beetles. Adults like fabric and animal products so can fly in through open windows and lay larvae on furniture, clothes, rugs, or carpets.
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Animal origin: Carpet beetles like to lay eggs on larval food of animal origin, including woolen carpets, clothing, furs, and museum specimens.
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Dead insects: Infestations may also stem from bird nests, animal carcasses, or accumulations of dead insects such as flies or lady beetles in attics or other areas.
Carpet beetle larvae can cause damage to natural fibers while they feed, leaving holes in throws and clothes. If attached to clothing, the bristly hairs can also irritate human skin. Other than skin irritation, they are not harmful to humans. In most cases, they do not cause damage.
