Signs of a carpet beetle infestation include tiny shed larval skins, holes in fabric or carpets, and small, slow-moving larvae known as "woolly bears." Adult beetles may also be seen near windows or light sources as they are attracted to light.

Carpet beetle larvae are small, oval, and usually brown or tan with bands or stripes. They have bristly hairs and are often referred to as “woolly bears” due to their fuzzy appearance.

Carpet beetles tend to hide in dark, undisturbed areas. Common hiding spots include under carpets, inside air ducts, within closets, beneath furniture, and around baseboards.

Infestations usually begin when adult beetles are attracted to indoor light and enter through doors or windows. They may also be brought in on secondhand furniture, rugs, or infested clothing items. Once inside, they lay eggs, which hatch into larvae that feed on natural fibers and food products.

While carpet beetles do not bite or sting, their larvae have tiny bristles that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Pets may also react to the larvae’s hairs if they come into contact with them.

Small infestations may be managed with regular cleaning, but for extensive or recurring issues, professional treatment is often necessary to completely eradicate the infestation. Carpet beetles can be highly resilient, and DIY treatments may not reach all hiding spots, especially if larvae are present in hard-to-access areas.