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How To Get Rid Of Carpet Beetles Naturally

Jefferson Fowler • Aug 27, 2022

Carpet beetles are harmless to humans, but can cause damage to items in your home such as fabrics, furniture, and carpets. See how you get easily get rid of carpet beetles in your home naturally below.

Carpet beetles are small, multi-coloured beetles that feed on fibres of certain materials often found in homes, such as wool, leather, and silk. As their name suggests, carpet beetles are often found indoors living within carpets, and can cause infestations if they are left long enough. Because they are so small, some homeowners don't notice them until they have an infestation.

Here are a few different methods for getting rid of carpet beetles naturally:

1. Vinegar: White or apple cider vinegar works to kill carpet beetle larvae and eggs.
2. Steam Cleaning: Regularly vacuuming and steam cleaning can help kill and permanently remove beetles and offspring.
3. Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth: This substance dehydrates carpet beetle larvae and is safe to use around children and pets.
4. Peppermint Oil: Peppermint essential oil as well as clove essential oil is a known deterrent for carpet beetles.

To learn more about the methods above, continue reading below.

Method #1: Use a Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is often the first choice for homeowners to try as it is completely naturally and safe to use in households with children and pets. Not only that, but most homeowners have vinegar on hand, so you can try it out as soon as you notice carpet beetles in your home! White vinegar can typically be used on most fabrics, including furniture upholsteries, without causing damage.

Vinegar is a natural deterrent for carpet beetles as they do not like the scent and the solution can kill eggs and larvae. Straight vinegar poured into a spray bottle and applied to problem areas works well. You may also choose to dilute the vinegar with some water if you would like to try that first, as the smell of straight vinegar may be strong for some homeowners.

Method #2: Regular Vacuuming

If you have recently discovered that you have carpet beetles and you believe that the infestation is still generally contained, you may be able to get rid of the problem before it really begins by regularly vacuuming and steam cleaning until you do not notice any more beetles. The heat from a steam cleaner is powerful enough to kill beetle eggs, and once dead, your vacuum can lift them up as well as any living beetles.

Regular carpet vacuuming and steam cleaning is also a great way to help prevent a re-infestation after you have removed carpet beetles and definitely do not want them coming back for round two! As carpet beetles are so small (and their eggs are even tinier) it is possible that a few are missed during your initial extermination phase. Vacuuming and frequent cleaning can help get any stray beetles that were missed and prevent future issues.

You may also want to vacuum and clean furniture that you noticed beetles on, as they can damage fabrics and upholstery too. Check out the video above to learn more about vacuuming and other preventative measures.

Method #3: Apply Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is actually a very interesting substance! It is ground up fossilized remains of a certain type of phytoplankton, and it has a lot of handy uses. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is considered safe to use around children or pets (though you should avoid eating it or getting it in your eyes or skin, as it can irritate! However, it is chemical-free!) You can buy diatomaceous earth from many hardware stores or farming supply stores.

Diatomaceous earth kills a wide variety of pests, including roaches, fleas, and of course, carpet beetles. The substance looks like a fine powder, but it actually has tiny rough edges - it's quite scratchy, and that's why it can cause skin irritation in people. While it is just a bit annoying if you get some on you, it is fatal to many types of bugs. As the bugs crawl over it, the scratchy substance damages their exoskeleton and leads to dehydration.

To use diatomaceous earth to get rid of carpet beetles, you will first want to clean up your carpets and any furniture fabrics that may be infested. Cleaning will help get rid of some of the beetles, eggs, and larvae in the process.

If you recently steam cleaned, you'll want to wait until your carpets are completely dry before applying the earth substance. Once your areas are clean and dry, dust the earth into places that you have most noticed the beetles. Remember, the surface must be dry because wet diatomaceous earth will not kill insects.

Note: When applying diatomaceous earth, wear a respirator mask and safety goggles. This will help prevent you from inhaling the irritating dust particles or getting any into your eyes.

Method #4: Apply Essential Oils

If you have some essential oils around your home, you may want to try using them to help remove carpet beetles, especially if you have only noticed a few and the infestation is still contained. It is said that peppermint essential oil and clove essential oils can act as a natural bug repellent for some types of insects, including carpet beetles.

While this method may not be very effective at killing beetles if you have an infestation, it can help to prevent them from coming back and help repel them in the first place. Sometimes, carpet beetles simply get indoors by hitching a ride on your shoes on clothes when you are coming in from the outdoors! If this is the case, spraying some essential oils may help naturally prevent one or two beetles from turning your home into their home.

In the video above, you can see how to make a simply water and peppermint oil spray solution. While this video is specifically talking about garden pests, you can use the same solution indoors as well.

Need To Replace Damaged Furniture?

If you have recently dealt with a carpet beetle infestation that damaged your furniture, you may be wondering if it is worth fixing or if you should simply replace it. If you need to replace couches or chairs in a small space or are looking for a more cost-effective furniture solution, consider a high-quality futon.

When it comes time to replace your furniture, that's an excellent time to consider choosing something new for your space. Futons are perfect for multi-purpose rooms, for small spaces, for dorm rooms, and for guest bedrooms. Take a look at some options today, or contact The Futon Shop to learn more.

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Reasons Why Futons are the Coolest Furniture Trend

By Dawn Sherwin • 06 May, 2024

Fussy sofas and cumbersome beds have met their match in the versatile and stylish futon. With a unique blend of functionality and comfort, futons have cemented their place in modern spaces, becoming a favored furniture item. Simultaneously, it captures the essence of convenience and style for many households. Here are eight compelling reasons why the futon captures hearts and reveals why it's not just a college dorm staple anymore.

People Love Their Futons

By Ron Becker • 15 Apr, 2024

Futons have garnered a devoted following for a myriad of reasons, chief among them being their unmatched versatility. Ideal for small spaces, futons effortlessly transition from a cozy sofa by day to a comfortable bed by night, making them a perfect solution for guests or those living in studio apartments. They also offer an aesthetic appeal, with designs ranging from traditional Japanese styles to modern, minimalist looks that can complement any decor. Furthermore, the affordability of futons compared to conventional beds and sofas allows individuals to furnish their spaces on a budget without compromising on style or comfort. Beyond practicality and style, many appreciate the simplicity of a futon's design, which promotes a less cluttered and more mindful way of living. In addition to their practical and aesthetic benefits, futons are also celebrated for their environmental friendliness. Unlike traditional furniture that can be cumbersome and often requires complex assembly or specialized disposal methods, futons are typically made from natural materials like cotton, wool, and latex. This not only makes them more sustainable but also easier to recycle or repurpose at the end of their life cycle. Many futon owners find peace of mind knowing they have chosen a piece of furniture that aligns with their environmental values. With the increasing awareness and concern for the planet, the choice of a futon becomes not just one of convenience and style, but also a proactive step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Futons are not just for students! The notion that futons are merely for college dorms or temporary living situations is quickly becoming outdated. Families, professionals, and retirees alike are discovering the practicality and comfort that a well-chosen futon can offer. Whether it's for a spare room that doubles as an office, or as a primary bed in a minimalist living setup, the adaptability of the futon caters to a wide demographic. This shift in perception underscores a broader trend towards multi functional furniture that doesn't compromise on either form or function, reflecting a more versatile approach to interior design and living spaces. The evolution of futon designs has also played a significant role in their surging popularity. Today's market offers a range of styles, from traditional Shikibuton, a type of Japanese mattress that can be folded and stored away, to the more substantial, sofa-like convertible futons that are common in Western homes. This diversity ensures that there's a futon for every taste and requirement, whether one prefers the minimalist aesthetic of a floor mattress or the practicality of a convertible couch-bed. High-quality futons now incorporate durable, comfortable materials that rival those used in standard mattresses and sofas, ensuring that choosing a futon no longer means sacrificing comfort for convenience. Coupled with the rise of small-scale living and the minimalist lifestyle movement, futons are increasingly becoming a symbol of thoughtful, intentional living. They reflect a rejection of the unnecessary, encouraging a focus on what truly adds value to one’s living space. For many, a futon is not just a piece of furniture, but a choice that supports a lifestyle free from the encumbrances of excessive possessions. This paradigm shift towards valuing simplicity and functionality has propelled futons from the fringes of furniture choices into the mainstream, aligning perfectly with contemporary life's demands and philosophies. When you’re ready to add a futon to your home furnishings, take a trip to The Futon Shop in Burlington. Futons are their specialty and you will love the selection of futons and accessories. The Futon Shop 5205 Harvester Road, Burlington (905) 633-9697

Tell Me About Futons

By Dawn Sherwin • 21 Feb, 2024

Originating from Japan, the futon is a traditional style of bedding that comprises a padded mattress and duvet, both of which can be folded and stored to save space. The Western adaptation has morphed into a multi-functional piece of furniture that doubles as a couch and a bed, ideal for small living spaces or as a cost-effective furniture option. Ensuring versatility and comfort, futons have become a staple in dorm rooms, guest rooms, and minimalistic living environments worldwide. Futons are not only practical but also renowned for their simplicity and minimalist aesthetic. When selecting a futon, consumers consider the quality of the frame, typically crafted from wood or metal, for durability and support. The choice of futon mattress varies from traditional cotton to modern foam options, offering different levels of comfort and resilience. Accessories such as covers and pillows can be added to enhance the futon’s comfort and match the interior decor, making it a versatile choice for any room. The functionality of a futon is further extended by its ability to seamlessly fit into tight spaces and multipurpose rooms. This quality makes futons an ideal solution for urban living, where every inch of space is valuable. Beyond the practicality, the futon culture embraces a philosophy of simplicity, frequently associated with the minimalist movements and sustainable living practices that advocate for less consumption and a de cluttered way of life. Hence, futons not only serve a functional purpose but also represent an environmentally conscious choice for consumers who wish to minimize their ecological footprint. Maintaining your futon in good condition requires simple yet consistent care. Regularly cleaning the mattress by vacuuming can help keep dust and allergens at bay. If the futon cover is removable, be sure to wash it as per the instructions—most are machine washable—which helps in maintaining its appearance and hygiene. For the frame, wiping it down with a damp cloth can prevent the accumulation of dirt and preserve the material. Additionally, rotating and flipping the mattress periodically will ensure even wear and can prolong the life of your futon. Proper maintenance not only increases the longevity of the futon but also enhances your overall comfort and satisfaction with this versatile piece of furniture.Futons are widely recognized for their cost-effectiveness, offering a budget-friendly alternative to traditional beds and sofas. Their economical appeal is particularly evident when considering the dual-purpose. When you’re ready to enter the world of futon ownership, the experts at The Futon Shop are here for you! They are proud to manufacture futons at a location in Burlington so your futon is locally made. They can also arrange your futon to be shipped across Canada. No matter your budget or style, there is sure to be a futon to fit your needs! The Futon Shop is here for you! Take a visit to The Futon Shop in Burlington to get inspiration for your interior decorating using futons and their accessories. Call the friendly stall at 1-844- 93 FUTON!