Carpet beetles are considered very common household pests in some countries like the UK. They can be seen as small insects on window sills in spring and summer. Beetles are attracted to UV light, and so you can easily find them on windows.
Signs of a carpet beetle infestation
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As mentioned above, adult beetles can fly perfectly and are attracted to ultraviolet light. When you find beetles on window sills, it is one of the first signs of infestation.
They are sometimes difficult to detect because they can sometimes hide in cracks and crevices in carpets. They can also live in vents, floorboards, clothing, furniture, etc. You should be on the lookout for the following signs:
- Damage to fabrics: Check carpets, rugs, and other items for holes. The beetle’s larvae will eat all the fluff from the surface of the fabric and will see the threads underneath.
- Fecal granules and cover skins: When the larvae of the carpet beetle grow, they begin to shed their skin. They will leave empty skin caps in the areas where they feed, and it will be a sign of infestation.
- Find live or dead insects: Carpet beetles in adulthood can grow up to 4 mm, and you can see them with the naked eye.
What do carpet beetles eat and live?
Carpet beetle larvae can feed on many things, including fur, animal products, feathers, hair, wool, and dead insects.
How to get rid of carpet beetles on the windowsill
If you have a carpet beetle infestation on your windowsill and you want to get rid of them, you can take the following steps:
Vacuum pass
The first thing to do is vacuum all the areas where the beetles and larvae are rugs, carpets, curtains, and furniture.
Steam clean
The second step you need to take to get rid of the beetles is to clean the areas with a steam cleaner. Moisture and heat will be able to kill beetles and eggs properly.
Wash pillows and clothes
To clean your clothes and pillows, you should use detergents and hot water. If you notice that the clothes are badly damaged, you can dispose of them in well-sealed plastic bags and take them to the garbage container.
Spray and clean surfaces with vinegar
You can use a mixture of water with vinegar or with apple cider or white cider. Wipe shelves, window sills, drawers, cupboards with this mixture to remove dirt and food residue.
Apply boric acid
You can use boric acid on carpets, furniture, and rugs to kill any remaining beetles. You should leave the powder for 2 hours and then vacuum it up and dispose of it in plastic bags.
How to prevent carpet beetles on your windowsill?
When you have removed the carpet beetles from your home, you should prevent a new infestation. Follow the tips below:
- You must get rid of the beetle’s entire food source.
- You should clean and vacuum regularly.
- Occasionally use boric acid and other indoor insecticides that will prevent carpet beetles from returning.
- You can use insecticides outdoors around the house to prevent beetles from getting close. You can also use it on windows, doors, and pipes.
- Remove bird nests near your home because beetles can lay eggs there and then migrate back to your home.
