How to Prevent Black Beetles
Black beetles (also known as carpet beetles) are insects classified as fabric pests because they consume and destroy all types of fabrics. The black beetle lodges itself into elements of carpet fibers, curtains, bedding and closets. Prevention of black beetle infestation is a simple process which involves a thorough cleaning of all affected areas and treatment with fabric-safe pesticide. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum cleaner
- Washing machine
- Dustpan
- Broom
- Ziplock bags
- Suspend SC
- Dry cleaner (if necessary)
- White vinegar
- Water
Instructions
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Vacuum the affected area if black beetles have settled into your carpets. Be sure to cover every square inch of carpet space with the vacuum cleaner. To prevent black beetles from settling into your carpets permanently, carpets should be vacuumed at least once weekly.
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Remove all curtains, linens and clothing that has been affected by the black beetle and take the affected items outside.
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For dry clean only items, place the items directly into a bag and take to the dry cleaners. Be sure to tell the dry cleaner that your items were affected by black beetles so that they will be able to properly kill and treat your fabric.
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Brush off any other fabric items which are machine washable using a broom and dustpan.
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Place any beetle remnants derived from the fabric into a plastic Ziplock bag and then into a waste bin.
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Wash all items which are machine washable immediately upon brushing off.
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Purchase a beetle-killing pesticide which is safe on carpets and interior fabrics, such as Suspend SC.
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Apply Suspend SC as needed to the affected area.
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Let the area dry for 20 minutes. Vacuum entire surface area of carpet again to ensure no beetle larvae remain.
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Continue to vacuum and wash your linens and clothing on a regular basis. Black beetles thrive in areas such as closets or laundry rooms where dirty laundry or linens may pile up.
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Tips & Warnings
Suspend SC is designed for indoor and outdoor use. Perform a test on a small area to ensure that it is safe for use on delicate fabrics.
