Introduction

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get rid of carpet beetles naturally using powerful home remedies, DIY solutions, and preventive measures to keep them from coming back.

Carpet beetles are tiny but destructive pests that feed on natural fibers like carpets, clothes, and upholstery. If left untreated, they can cause serious damage to your home and belongings.

While chemical insecticides can eliminate them, many people prefer natural solutions to keep their homes safe for pets, children, and the environment.

Let’s dive in!

What Are Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles belong to the Dermestidae family and are commonly found in homes worldwide. They come in different species:

✔ Varied Carpet Beetles – Small, oval-shaped beetles with a spotted pattern.
✔ Black Carpet Beetles – Solid black, slightly elongated.
✔ Furniture Carpet Beetles – Similar to varied carpet beetles but slightly larger.

These beetles lay eggs in carpets, furniture, and clothing. Once they hatch, the larvae feed on natural fibers, causing damage.

How to Identify a Carpet Beetle Infestation

🛑 Signs You Have Carpet Beetles:

✔ Shed Larval Skins: Carpet beetle larvae leave brown, shell-like skins behind.
✔ Fabric Damage: Holes in carpets, wool clothes, and furniture upholstery.
✔ Dead Beetles Near Windows: Adult carpet beetles are attracted to light.
✔ Tiny Black Droppings: Found in infested areas.

💡 Pro Tip: The larvae are the ones that cause damage—adults do not feed on fabric!

Why You Must Get Rid of Carpet Beetles

Ignoring a carpet beetle infestation can lead to:

❌ Severe Fabric Damage – They eat wool, silk, cotton, and fur.
❌ Skin Allergies & Irritation – Larval hairs can trigger allergic reactions.
❌ Fast Reproduction – They multiply quickly if left untreated.

The good news? You can get rid of carpet beetles naturally using simple home remedies!

How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles Naturally

1. Deep Cleaning: Your First Line of Defense

Cleaning your home thoroughly is the best way to remove carpet beetles without chemicals.

✔ Vacuum Everything

Vacuum carpets, rugs, furniture, and curtains regularly.
Pay special attention to corners, crevices, and underneath furniture.

✔ Steam Cleaning

Carpet beetles cannot survive high temperatures.
Use a steam cleaner on carpets, furniture, and drapes.

✔ Hot Water Wash

Wash all infested clothes, bedding, and fabrics in hot water (130°F / 54°C).
For non-washable items, freeze them for 72 hours to kill larvae and eggs.

💡 Pro Tip: Cleaning removes eggs and larvae, stopping the infestation before it grows.

2. Essential Oils to Repel Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles hate strong-smelling essential oils. Here are the best ones to use:

🟢 Cedarwood Oil – Destroys larvae & prevents eggs from hatching.
🟢 Lavender Oil – Interrupts the carpet beetle life cycle.
🟢 Peppermint Oil – Creates a strong scent barrier.
🟢 Eucalyptus Oil – Acts as a natural pesticide.

How to Use Essential Oils:

Mix 10 drops of essential oil + 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
Spray carpets, furniture, and storage areas once a week.
Soak cotton balls in essential oil and place them in drawers and closets.

💡 Pro Tip: Cedarwood blocks completely stop carpet beetles from laying eggs.

3. Natural Repellents That Work

✔ Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Food-grade DE dehydrates and kills carpet beetle larvae.
Sprinkle it on carpets, furniture, and infested areas.
Leave for 24 hours before vacuuming.

✔ Borax Powder

Mix borax + baking soda and sprinkle over carpets.
Leave for several hours before vacuuming.

✔ White Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Spray directly on infested carpets and furniture.
Vinegar destroys eggs and repels beetles.

4. DIY Carpet Beetle Traps

🐞 Sticky Tape Traps

Place double-sided tape near beetle-infested areas.
The sticky surface traps beetles instantly.

🔥 Light & Dish Soap Trap

Fill a bowl with water + dish soap and place it under a bright light.
Adult beetles fly toward the light and drown in the soapy water.

💡 Pro Tip: These traps work best at night when beetles are most active.

How to Prevent Carpet Beetle Infestations

Once you get rid of carpet naturally, follow these preventive measures to keep them from returning:

✔ Vacuum Regularly – At least twice a week.
✔ Store Clothes Properly – Use airtight plastic bags for wool and fur items.
✔ Use Natural Repellents – Place cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or essential oil-infused cotton balls in closets.
✔ Check Second-Hand Items – Inspect thrift store furniture, rugs, or clothes before bringing them home.
✔ Seal Cracks & Windows – Stop beetles from entering your house.

FAQs About Carpet Beetles

❓ Can vinegar kill carpet beetles?
✅ Yes! Vinegar kills carpet beetle eggs and larvae on contact.

❓ How long does it take to eliminate carpet beetles?
✅ With consistent cleaning and natural treatments, it takes 2-4 weeks to remove them completely.

❓ Do carpet beetles bite?
✅ No, but their hairs can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

❓ Are carpet beetles attracted to pet hair?
✅ Yes! Carpet beetles feed on keratin, which is found in pet hair, wool, and feathers.

Conclusion

get rid of carpet beetles can be eliminated naturally by using:

✔ Deep Cleaning (Vacuuming, Steam Cleaning, and Washing)
✔ Essential Oils (Cedarwood, Lavender, Peppermint)
✔ Natural Repellents (Diatomaceous Earth, Borax, Vinegar)
✔ DIY Traps (Sticky Tape & Light Traps)
✔ Preventive Measures to Keep Them Away

Want a beetle-free home without chemicals? Try these natural remedies today!