Pest ID Learn about the pests that impact homes and businesses across Central Massachusetts.

Worcester Pest Identification: Carpet Beetles

Massachusetts has two species of Carpet beetle, the varied carpet beetle and the black carpet beetle. Most carpet beetles can fly and as such are good candidates to infest homes from spring through the early fall. Infestations can be brought into homes and businesses in already infested products. The larvae will feed on a wide variety of sources such as: dried pet food, museum specimens, hides, dried fish, feathers, felt, lint/hair in return-air ducts, dead insects, dried carcasses, seeds, grains, cereals, woolen rugs/clothing, silk, furs velvet, spices, bee/wasp nests, horn, corn meal, fish meal, old mouse baits, dead insects and many others numerous to mention.
Successful control depends on locating the source of the infestation and removing it. If you find infested material, either clean it, place it in a sealed bag, dry clean or even throw it out.

A thorough vacuuming is always recommended to physically remove as many as possible and please remember to remove the vacuum bag or empty the canister when you are done. If it is clothing that is infested, 20 minutes in the dryer will remove and kill any stages of the insect. If food is found to be infested throw out the infested material and vacuum out the cabinet where they were found.

In severe cases, professional spraying must be performed to get rid of them permanently.

Sensitivity to the Larva

Various reports describe, what appears to be an acquired allergic reaction to carpet beetle larval hairs.

These hypersensitivity reactions are characterized by complaints of being bitten by something causing an intense itching and rash. It is thought that only individuals that have long-term exposure (years) to these hairs become sensitized.

Central Mass Trusts Us. See Why.

J
Amazing Customer Service
"After 2+ months of rodent activity, I called Ford and within 2–3 days of their first setup, the house was silent!"

Jess
4/13/26
D
Great Service, Top-Quality Customer Service
"Great service, top-quality customer service and professional services."

Dan Aubertin
4/12/26
T
Robert was knowledgeable and professional
"Robert was knowledgeable, professional, and gave me lots of education about the whole process."

Trish Aponte
4/10/26
G
Dean was great
"Thorough and respectful of my home."

Gerry
4/10/26
J
Paul was very friendly
"Paul was very friendly and took some time to explain what he will be doing on his 1st visit of the season."

James Burke
4/01/26
D
Very Passionate and Knowledgeable
"He explained everything that he was doing and effectively answered our questions."

David Reno
3/21/26
J
Professional and On Time
"He was professional and on time."

James Ramsey
3/05/26
D
I Love Ford's Hometown Services
"They provided me and my family with another visit on the rodent protection program that I have each year."

Donna Pina
3/03/26
A
Not a peep of a mouse all winter
"I'm pleased to say it is 2/28/26, and not a peep of a mouse has been heard all winter!"

April L
2/28/26

View All Reviews

Talk with Ford's Hometown Services Today

Call (774) 418-4908 or send the form and we will help you sort out pests, wildlife, or lawn concerns with a plan that fits your property. At Ford's Hometown Services, we treat your home or business with the care we use for our own.

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Address
Are you a new customer?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Local Care Backed by 85+ Years of Doing the Right Thing

Voted the Area's Top Choice for Pest Control

We were voted the #1 pest control company in Central Massachusetts in 2024, something we achieved by putting people first and providing lasting results.
85+ Years Of Know-How

With us, you get practical, tailor-made solutions that are backed by over eight decades of industry experience.
Cleaner Visits, Every Time

We follow a four-step cleanliness process to keep homes and businesses neat and tidy, all while delivering effective pest control and lawn care.
Comprehensive Care, One Team

We're your one-stop shop for complete pest and wildlife control and lawn care, all under one roof.

Stay Ahead of Pests

Explore tips, local advice, and real answers from our Worcester team to help you protect your home, family, and property all year long.

Visit Our Blog