In the case of a heavy infestation, insecticide treatment may be necessary. Before making insecticide treatments for carpet beetles, the premises should be thoroughly vacuumed. Cracks and crevices can be treated with a dust such as diatomaceous earth or silica aerogel. These dusts may also be applied at the edge of carpeting near the baseboards in infested rooms. Spot treatment of rugs may be made with residual sprays.
Emulsifiable concentrates are the best formulations for treatment of carpets and rugs.
Fumigation offers elimination of the current infestation but has no residual protection is provided allowing for reinfestation. Paradichlorobenzene has been shown to slightly inhibit feeding but is not an effective repellent against the black carpet beetle. Insect Management Guide for carpet beetles Selected References Baker, J.E. 1986. Bennet, G.W., J.M. Owens, and R.M. Corrigan. Advanstar Communications, Cleveland.