9 Best Carpet Beetle Sprays (And How To Use Them)

Carpet beetles creep into your house and then damage anything they can find in their path. No one wants to walk into their living room and see a family of carpet beetles living inside their rugs. Luckily, several products on the market can help eliminate a carpet beetle infestation.
One of the best sprays to eliminate carpet beetles is the Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect, Killer. The spray provides coverage for a year and can be used in all rooms inside your home. Bedlam Plus Spray comes in an aerosol can and makes getting rid of carpet beetles easy and effective.
It’s essential to find an insect spray that will work on carpet beetles. This article will go over the 9 best carpet beetle sprays and how to use them. We will also cover natural methods, and a few insects traps to ensure you have plenty of options to rid your house of carpet beetles finally!
Top Spots for Carpet Beetles To Hide

Before you start treating your home for carpet beetles, it’s important to know where to look. Even if you have found evidence of the pest, there likely are spots you have not discovered yet.
Carpet beetles are tiny pests, no bigger than one-fourth of an inch. They often are seen more in the warmer months of summer. Carpet beetles can stay in a larva state for nearly nine months, making it hard to spot them for a considerable amount of time.
The larvae state is most destructive because its only goal is to eat.
In addition, carpet beetles can chew their way through your cereal boxes and can go unnoticed for quite some time. That is until you go to pour yourself a bowl of cereal for breakfast. Side of carpet beetles, anyone?
Since there are so many places carpet beetles may hide, it’s vital to become familiar with the most common locations.
Here are the top spots for carpet beetles to hide.
- Under your couch. Carpet beetles can easily find a secure spot under your couch. They can’t be easily found, and there’s a good chance they will find some crumbs to munch on. When cleaning your home, make sure to move all pieces of furniture.
- Indoor and window cracks. If you have any cracks in your door or window frame, carpet beetles will use it as an invitation to come inside. Because of this, they can easily stay hidden in any gaps and begin laying eggs.
- Carpet beetles hide in your clothing. An adult carpet beetle can easily lay between 30 and 100 eggs. Guess where she might choose her birth location? Yep, your closet. The eggs only take a week or two to hatch, so it’s crucial to inspect your clothing before a new family of carpet beetles moves in. You want to pay special attention to any wool fabrics, as carpet beetles will gladly snack away.
- Your carpet is a great hiding spot. As their name suggests, carpet beetles are often found in your carpet. The fibers appeal to them, and they can easily make themselves comfortable as they begin laying eggs. Vacuum regularly to help eliminate the pest.
One thing to add, I actually had an issue at first where I THOUGHT I had bed bugs or
1. Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer
If you want something on hand for almost any type of insect, then Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer is an excellent choice.
The indoor spray is great because it gives you coverage for 12 months. In addition, you don’t have to worry about it staining your furniture or walls, and it dries super fast.
The container comes with its sprayer, which makes it a cinch to use. You will want to spray all the areas where you have seen evidence of carpet beetles.
As a bonus, the sprayer has an extended handle allowing you to get to any hard-to-reach places.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer here.
2. Bedlam Plus Spray

It doesn’t get much easier than using an aerosol can to rid your house of bugs. The Bedlam Plus Spray is easy to use and helps eliminate carpet beetles and their eggs.
You can spray it directly on your carpet or on furniture you have found with evidence of the beetles.
The spray has a residual effect of three weeks, ensuring it continues to work even after your first application.
Bedlam Spray is an excellent choice if you want to spray a warehouse, office, or school. The easy application makes it a superb choice for a quick job.
In addition, the spray will not stain any water-resistant fabrics or surfaces. With that being said, it’s essential to read the labels of all furniture or carpet before spraying. If you are unsure, it’s wise to spray an inconspicuous area for testing.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Bedlam Plus Spray here.
3. Syngenta Demand CS Insecticide
If you are looking for an insecticide to clear out various pests, then the Syngenta Demand CS Insecticide may be what you are looking for.
Syngenta Demand CS Insecticide is effective on 30 various common insects. In addition, you can use the insecticide both inside and outdoors.
You will need a spray bottle to use the insecticide. The Flo-Master Lawn and Garden Tank Sprayer is exceptionally reasonable and can effectively do the job.
To use, mix ten ml of the insecticide with one gallon of water. If you have a severe infestation, you can increase the amount of insecticide in your mixture while keeping the same amount of water. Ensure you are wearing gloves to prevent the mixture from getting on your hands.
Spray all areas where you have seen evidence of carpet beetles. Don’t forget to get in any cracks or crevices to ensure you are covering all areas.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Syngenta Demand CS Insecticide here.
4. Delta Dust Multi-use Pest Control
The following method of ridding your house of carpet beetles sets itself apart from others on the list. Instead of a spray, Delta Dust Multi-use Pest Control is just what it says: dust!
There are a few methods of using the Delta Dust. First, you can add the substance to a blower like the Harris Powder Duster. Then, once you fill it up, you spray all areas where carpet beetles have been spotted. Finally, ensure you only fill the duster halfway for use.
If any dust does not make it into place, use a paintbrush to brush it into the ideal spot, like cracks on a windowsill. You can also use a paintbrush for application if you don’t have a duster. However, a powder duster will ensure you effectively cover infected areas.
The dust is waterproof, so you can use it in sinks and drains if there has been evidence of pests.
Keep in mind the dust won’t eliminate the carpet beetles the walk they step over it. Then, as they cross through the dust, they ingest the insecticide and eventually perish.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Delta Dust Multi-use Pest Control here.
5. Bayer Suspend Polyzone Insecticide
Carpet beetles are no match for the Bayer Suspend Polyzone Insecticide. The spray can be used both inside and outside and is developed so that the active ingredient is not affected by the elements.
For application, mix 1.2 ounces of the insecticide with one gallon of water in a sprayer. Ensure to spray any spot you have found infested with carpet beetles.
The spray continues to ward off pests for up to 90 days, allowing you to breathe a sigh of relief as your home is being rid of the problem.
Finally, the insecticide works against over 40 types of pests, making it effective at keeping your home bug-free.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Bayer Suspend Polyzone Insecticide here.
6. Talstar Pro Insecticide
You’ll want to keep your sprayer handy if you decide to use the Talstar Pro Insecticide. The effective insecticide continues to work for over three months after the initial application.
The power solution is extremely effective in eliminating carpet beetles from your home. The odorless spray won’t leave any stains around your home and won’t bother your skin if you come into contact with it.
To use, mix .5-1 ounce of the insecticide per one gallon of water to cover a 1,000 square foot area. When spraying, ensure you reach all the tiny spaces the beetles may be used to get in.
You can use insecticide either inside or outside; however, you will want to make sure to keep it away from any fruits or vegetables in your garden.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Talstar Pro Insecticide here.
7. Reefer-Galler Cedar Scented Spray
If you are looking for an effective way to eliminate carpet beetles but dislike the odor from other sprays, you’ll thoroughly enjoy using the Reefer-Galler Cedar Scented Spray.
The scented spray can be applied directly to infected areas without the concern of it staining anything in its path. The fresh cedar scent is a bonus!
In addition, the spray works on contact so that you can use it directly on carpet beetles. You also will want to spray any areas where there has been evidence of the beetles to ensure you are helping eliminate eggs and larvae.
Finally, make sure to keep any others off and away from the sprayed area until thoroughly dried.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Reefer-Galler Cedar Scented Spray here.
8. Eco Defense Pest Control Spray
The Eco Defense Pest Control Spray is an excellent option if you are looking for organic and natural. The pest control spray is made with non-toxic ingredients and doesn’t include harsh chemicals like others on the market.
The spray bottle is easy-to-use and should be applied in all areas where carpet beetles and their eggs have been identified.
Since there are no strong odors, you will enjoy using the product all-around your home, including clothing and furniture.
You can use the spray on the inside and outside of your home, ensuring you eliminate your carpet beetle problem. In addition, the pest spray is non-staining and safe to use around the home.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Eco Defense Pest Control Spray here.
9. Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray
To wrap up the list of the best carpet sprays is the Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray. The natural spray is eco-friendly and does a superb job at getting rid of carpet beetles.
Not only does spraying Wondercide around your house take care of any current carpet beetles, but it also helps prevent any future ones.
Spray infected areas twice a week and then as needed every month as a preventative measure. Ensure you spray all spots around your house, including the tiniest of cracks they may have wiggled into.
The pest control spray helps eliminate adult carpet beetles and their eggs and larvae. An entire 32 oz bottle can cover up to 400 square feet of space. Oh yeah!
Finally, the spray is safe to use around pets and children, making it an excellent choice for a family home.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray here.
Best Carpet Beetle Traps For Your Home
Another excellent choice for eliminating carpet beetles is by setting out traps. For example, you might want to avoid spraying anything around your house and are looking for other options.
Traps can effectively rid your house of carpet beetles, but you have to keep an eye on things. You will want to move the traps around every few days if the beetles don’t find their way to them.
Primarily however, usually traps are for mitigating the issue and identifying it in the first place. So if you DO think that you have carpet beetles, the traps will confirm it. Then you should contact a professional to get the remainder of the infestation.
Catchmaster Pest Trap
Carpet beetles can crawl into the Catchmaster Pest Trap but they can’t crawl out. You can place the small glue boards in any part of your home where the beetles have been spotted.
One order comes with 72 traps, so you undoubtedly will have plenty of opportunities to catch these pests. The strong glue holds the beetles in place until you properly dispose of the trap.
Since the traps can hold multiple beetles, resist throwing them away until you know there is no space for any additional beetles.
The traps are so effective at catching pests, you likely will find out whether you have other bugs roaming around your house.
If you’re interested, you can purchase Catchmaster Pest Traps here.
Black Flag Pantry Pest Trap
Another effective option at trapping carpet beetles is the Black Flag Pantry Pest Trap. Since carpet beetles will often find their way into your pantry, it’s crucial to stop the problem before it gets out of hand.
The pantry pest traps work best when placed in common carpet beetle areas, like pantries, kitchen cabinets, and under furniture.
You will want to replace the trap when it’s full, but it can be left out for three months if there has been no evidence of beetles. So, it’s wise to keep at least two traps out at a time, but never more than four.
Finally, it’s vital to place the traps within a ten-foot range of where you have found any signs of carpet beetles. If the traps are too staggered, the beetles will never make their way over to them.
If you’re interested, you can purchase the Black Flag Pantry Pest Trap here.
How to Naturally Keep Away Carpet Beetles
While insecticides sometimes are your best bet, there are natural ways to keep carpet beetles from invading your home. Sometimes, all it takes to eliminate a pest problem is to ensure your house is not a hospitable environment for them.
Here are a few ways you can naturally keep carpet beetles away from your home.
Keep A Clean House

A clean house will help keep pests away. Carpet beetles often are in carpets and furniture, so it’s crucial to vacuum and sweep regularly.
You want to ensure you get in all corners of your house, and under furniture. Carpet beetles can easily disguise themselves in a pile of dust and go unnoticed. While it may seem tedious, keeping a tidy home can go a long way when it comes to treating your house for carpet beetles.
Ensure you empty the vacuum container immediately and dispose of the trash bag. If you find carpet beetles on your clothing or towels, wash everything on hot to ensure any traces are eliminated.
Make sure all foods are properly put away in your pantry. For example, you might want to consider placing all grains and kinds of pasta in airtight food storage containers to prevent carpet beetles from invading your food.
Make An Apple Cider Vinegar Mixture
Apple cider vinegar works wonders for a variety of purposes, and that includes keeping carpet beetles away. Mix the vinegar with water in a spray bottle and clean the areas where you have seen evidence of the beetles and their larvae.
Apple cider vinegar doesn’t usually stain, but it’s important to dilute it first. You don’t want to spray it directly on clothes or furniture. If you are in doubt, always spray an inconspicuous area to ensure no staining occurs.
Use Essential Oils To Deter Carpet Beetles

You can use several essential oils around your house to keep carpet beetles away. Using essential oils can bring peace of mind knowing you aren’t spraying any chemicals around your home.
Some of the essential oils carpet beetles dislike are:
- Peppermint
- Cedar
- Lavender
- Clove
- Neem
We also have a complete list of Scents That Carpet Beetles Hate to give you some more inspiration! It’s also nice to have a few options with items that you find lying around your house.
Seal Any Gaps Or Cracks Around Your House

While a large number of carpet beetles were born in your house, they can initially get in through any gaps or cracks in your foundation.
If you’ve noticed an uptick in carpet beetles, it’s wise to survey your property and identify any areas where they may have found a way inside.
It’s always important to do this to keep other pests out. For example, cracks or crevices in the door or window frames are an easy way to attract a variety of unwelcome guests.
Use Synthetic Fabrics In Your Home
If you can’t seem to rid your house of carpet beetles, you may want to rethink what fabrics you have inside. Carpet beetles tend to be attracted to organic materials.
However, that’s not to say they won’t go after something with synthetic materials. Carpet beetles are more likely to be attracted to synthetic substances if they are dirtied with sweat, oils, or fruit juices. So, it’s vital to wash any sweaty or soiled clothing immediately.
When picking out a new rug or piece of furniture, check to see what it is made from. However, if you aren’t in the market for new furniture, check the labels on what you already own.
If your couch is made from organic materials, you want to make sure to treat it immediately for carpet beetles at the slightest sight of an infestation.
Staying on top of a pest problem is the key to ensuring it doesn’t become an infestation.
Summary
Once you identify you have a carpet beetle problem, you want to use an effective spray to help stop the infestation. You may choose only to spray any specific areas or use them around your home for extra protection.
If carpet beetles have decided to call your house their home, various sprays and traps help eliminate the beetles from your household.
If you are having trouble with beetles getting into specific places, check out this article on 6 Easy Tips To Keep Beetles Out Of Your Swimming Pool.
Remember, you can always reach out to a pest professional if the job has become too much for you. An expert can use their expertise to identify the problem areas and develop a strategic action plan.
Don’t forget to keep a clean and tidy home, making it unappealing for carpet beetles and other pests.
References
Back, Ernest Adna. Carpet beetles and their control. Good Press, 2019.
Cranshaw, Whitney. Carpet beetles. Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Service, 1996.
Houseman, Richard M. “Carpet beetles and clothes moths (2016).” (2016).
Zack is a Nature & Wildlife specialist based in Upstate, NY, and is the founder of his Tree Journey and Pest Pointers brands. He has a vast experience with nature while living and growing up on 50+ acres of fields, woodlands, and a freshwater bass pond. Zack has encountered many pest situations over the years and has spent his time maintaining and planting over 35 species of trees since his youth with his family on their property.

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