Carpet bug refers to a small household pest classified as the black carpet beetle (Attagenus unicolor) often found infesting homes, particularly carpets, rugs, upholstery, and stored clothing. These insects are part of the dermestid beetle family. Measuring approximately 1/8 to 3/16 inch in length, carpet bugs possess a round, stout body covered in dark brown or black hair. They have distinctive patterned scales on their wings.
Carpet bugs are attracted to natural animal fibers, such as wool, fur, feathers, and silk, as they serve as food sources for their larvae. The adult beetles are usually found outdoors, while the larvae are responsible for carpet damage inside homes. Female beetles lay clusters of 30 to 50 eggs in concealed areas near food sources, and it takes around one to three weeks for larvae to hatch. The larvae, typically carrot-shaped and covered in bristles, undergo several molts as they feed on organic materials, including carpet fibers.
Carpet bug larvae can become household pests when they infest carpets, curtains, upholstered furniture, and stored clothing, causing significant damage. Their presence can be identified by the presence of small holes in fabrics, shed skins, and fecal pellets resembling tiny grains. Proper hygiene, regular vacuuming, and dry cleaning of woollen items can help prevent infestations. In severe cases, professional pest control may be required to eradicate carpet bugs.
