Carpet dermestides are annoying parasites that lurk in the home and which, if neglected, can rapidly multiply and cause damage to clothing, carpets and wool rugs, upholstery and other fabrics. A good cleaning is the main defensive measure against a carpet dermestide infestation.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Preventing Carpet Skin Infestations
Step 1. Thoroughly vacuum clean carpets and rugs frequently to remove all eggs and larvae before they can cause damage
Also clean upholstery on furniture, including cushions and various upholstered seats.
Step 2. If you have pets, be sure to vacuum or otherwise remove hair, as they are a food source for dermestidae larvae
Step 3. Clean clothes and other fabric items, such as table and bed linens, before storing them in tight-fitting containers or boxes that can be carefully sealed
Keep the areas where you are going to store them free of dust, dirt and cobwebs.
Step 4. Clean the residues of food that has fallen to the ground and frequently eliminate the dust and fluff that form, because it is in these points that the dermestids reproduce easily
Step 5. Store food, fur, wool, and other delicate items in airtight, sealable, insect-proof containers
Step 6. Carefully examine any second-hand textile items you bring into your home and wash them immediately as carpet dermestides can spread from home to home via clothing, quilts, blankets and other similar items
Method 2 of 2: Dealing with a Carpet Skin Infestation
Step 1. Remove everything from the infested area
Vacuum and wash all surfaces thoroughly. Try, as much as you can, not to contaminate other areas of the house when cleaning the areas that are beset by dermestides.
Step 2. Read and follow package instructions carefully when using insecticide in infested areas
Step 3. Avoid spraying insecticides directly on clothing and bedding
Remove them from the closet or infested room before using the insecticide.
Step 4. Wash clothes and other fabrics that you can put in the washing machine with hot water and dry clean all other garments before putting them back
Step 5. Small items that cannot be washed, such as stuffed animals, can undergo a freezing cleaning process
Put each of them in a polyethylene bag, let out the excess air and hermetically seal the container. Store the latter in the freezer for at least 48-72 hours. Then put it in the refrigerator so that it thaws slowly. Finally, remove the contents once it has reached room temperature.
Advice
- Carpet dermestids generally lay their eggs in areas where dead insects are often found, such as along carpet edges, under headboards or in air ducts where lint accumulates.
- Small irregularly shaped holes in clothing, particularly those around the collars, usually indicate an infestation of carpet dermestides.
Warnings
- Some red dyes, used for rugs and carpets, can stain or change color after the application of certain insecticides. If you intend to use an insecticide on a carpet or carpet, test on an inconspicuous area to make sure the insecticide does not change the color.
- Many moth and carpet skin repellents are toxic and can cause irritation or discomfort if inhaled. Follow the instructions in the package carefully.
