How to Tell If You Have a Fabric Beetle Infestation
Fabric beetles (also called carpet beetles) are small, brown or black, destructive pests that feed on various natural fibres and materials. They are a common problem in homes and businesses and can cause extensive damage to clothing, carpets, and other fabrics.
These pests are especially active during summer and lay their eggs in fabric and other materials. The larvae then feed on the fibres. This is why fabric beetles can cause extensive damage to clothing, carpets, and other fabrics, such as blankets and delicate knitted goods.
The damage may not be apparent long after an infestation. Since fabric beetles prefer dark, quiet places, infestations can go undetected for years if areas are not cleaned regularly.
So, it is critical to regularly monitor for visible signs of fabric beetle infestation. Identifying fabric beetle problems becomes much easier when you know what to look for and where to look.
4 Indicators of a Fabric Beetle Infestation
Here are some signs of infestation to watch out for:
Small Holes in Fabrics: Fabric beetles often cause small holes in fabrics. These holes are usually about the size of a pinhead.
Damage to Natural Fibres: Fabric beetles are especially attracted to natural fibres like wool, silk, and fur. If you see damage to these types of fabrics, it could be a sign of a fabric beetle infestation.
Shed Beetle Skins: Fabric beetles shed their skins as they grow. If you find small beetle skins in an area where fabrics are stored, it could be a sign of an infestation.
Small, Round Fecal Pellets: Fabric beetles also leave behind small, round fecal pellets. These pellets are usually dark in colour and can be found near areas where active fabric beetles are.
Some signs of fabric beetle activity when you see them in groups near window openings, air vents, behind or beneath furniture, wardrobes, closets, and corners.
Contact a reliable pest control company if you suspect a fabric beetle infestation. They will be able to identify the pest and develop a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation.
3 Major Effects of Fabric Beetle Infestation
Fabric beetle infestation is usually solved by finding and killing the source of the infestation. However, if the infestation is not eliminated, it can lead to various damages such as:
Damage to Your Clothes and Furniture: Fabric beetles are small insects that love fabric and can cause much damage. They eat away at the fabric, leaving it in a state of disrepair. This can lead to holes and rips in the fabric.
Unpleasant Odours: Another common symptom of a fabric beetle infestation is the presence of unpleasant smells. The beetles excrete chemicals as they feed on fabric, and these chemicals can cause a strong odour.
Loss in Fabric Durability: As the fabric's density and structural integrity is compromised, its durability. Once infested, the fabric may need to be thrown out, especially if a lot of damage has been done.
4 Ways to Prevent Fabric Beetle Infestations
Here are some other tips to prevent fabric beetle infestations:
Routinely de-clutter and deep clean your home to destroy larvae or dead bugs. Remove infected items right away and clean beetle-infested areas.
Seal crevices and openings where insects could enter with caulk and weatherstrip.
After winter, dry clean and store woollens and similar textiles in sealed containers. Also, inspect new clothes and fabrics before bringing them home.
Several dry carpet and rug cleaners offer fabric pest control. However, many dry cleaners no longer offer this service due to a lack of secure ways to dispose of waste materials.
If you think you have a fabric beetle infestation, contacting a pest control professional is best to have your home inspected and treated immediately.
Conclusion
Although fabric beetles are not a danger to humans, they can cause extensive damage to your clothing and other fabrics in your home. So, if you think you have a fabric beetle infestation, call a pest control professional to have your home inspected and treated.
With pest control experts, you can get rid of fabric beetles for good, prevent them from returning, and protect your home from fabric beetle damage.
If you need fabric beetle removal in Geelong, D-Day Pest Control can help you eliminate fabric beetles and other pests from your home and prevent them from coming back. We provide fast and effective pest control services for residential and commercial properties. Contact our team today!
