Carpet beetles are sneaky little pests that can do major damage to your mattress if you don't catch them in time. These tiny insects feast on natural fibers and can chomp their way through fabric, compromising comfort and support.

While carpet beetles don't bite or transmit disease, they can trigger allergic reactions or asthma symptoms in sensitive people. And a widespread infestation can ruin a mattress, forcing you to replace it.

So how do you know if these pests have invaded your bed? Here's what to look for.

What Do Carpet Beetles Look Like?

Carpet beetles measure just 1/8 to 3/16 inch long. They have oval, flat bodies covered in tiny scales that give them a mottled appearance. Colors vary by species, but they usually combine black, brown, and white.

Adult beetles crawl slowly and are attracted to light. The larvae do the real damage, chewing through fabric as they feed.

Signs of Carpet Beetles on Mattresses

Watch for these clues that carpet beetles have moved into your mattress:

• Live beetles - Both larvae and adults may crawl on or near the mattress. Larvae shed their brownish skins as they grow, leaving behind tiny shells.

• Fecal pellets - Carpet beetle larvae produce small, pellet-like droppings that look like grains of sand. You may find them on the mattress or in crevices.

• Fabric damage - Chewed holes or thinning fabric are clear signs of feeding larvae. You may also see frayed areas.

• Allergens - Shed skins and debris trigger allergy symptoms in sensitive people. Coughing, sneezing, rashes and itching can occur.

• Silk strands - Some carpet beetles produce silk webbing as they feed. Watch for thin white strands on or near the mattress.

How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles

If you spot signs of carpet beetles, take action immediately to get rid of them and prevent more damage. Here are some effective methods:

• Vacuum thoroughly to remove eggs, larvae, and debris - use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.

• Wash all bedding in hot water and dry on high heat to kill any pests.

• Consider freezing or steaming your mattress if the infestation is severe. Freezing for several days kills all life stages.

• Apply insecticides as a last resort, focusing on cracks and crevices where beetles hide.

• Keep your bedroom clutter-free since carpet beetles feed on fabrics and organic material.

• Store mattresses properly sealed in plastic if they will be kept in storage to prevent re-infestation.

How to Keep Carpet Beetles Away

Once you get rid of carpet beetles, be vigilant about keeping them away. Follow these tips:

• Vacuum and inspect your mattress regularly for signs of reinfestation.

• Use mattress covers designed to block bed bugs and carpet beetles.

• Wash bedding and fabrics often to eliminate food sources.

• Reduce clutter and dust that give beetles places to hide and breed.

• Bring in as few used fabrics as possible - inspect carefully first.

• Seek professional pest control help for severe or persistent infestations.

Staying on top of cleaning and monitoring your mattress is the best way to prevent carpet beetles from damaging it or causing health issues. Act quickly if you see any signs. Protect your investment and your comfort by keeping these fabric pests away.