“Worm” Found in Bed Sheets is Probably Carpet Beetle Larva

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We just heard from a reader who found a worm-like organism crawling in his bed sheets. He asked us if its presence is an issue and if he should worry about it. He also sent us a photo of the creature, but it is hard to identify the specimen since the picture is a little out of focus:

We know that the specimen is brown, small, and where it was discovered. Based off this information, we think the creature is probably a carpet beetle larva. Although we can’t clearly identify it based on the photo, we believe this is a likely scenario.

Carpet beetle larvae are common household visitors that feed on various things found throughout a home. Their food sources include animal products (such as feathers, wool, fur), linens and fabrics, pet fur, pet food, dust, crumbs, and other small particles that collect in the corners of a lived-in house! As their name suggests, they also sometimes eat carpets and upholstered furniture.

Since this little creature was discovered in our reader’s bed, its main food source is probably something on the bed or near the bed area. Our reader should look for signs of infestation and damage on his comforter, pillows, mattress, and carpet. He can also search for carpet beetle larvae droppings, which look like rust colored dust. Once he finds the damaged items, he should remove them from his home and either dispose of them or have them professionally cleaned to destroy eggs. In general, everything near and around his bed should be cleaned to destroy unseen carpet beetle eggs. In addition, he should begin a cleaning routine to eliminate potential food sources. He should do laundry, vacuum, sweep, and dust every day until he is no longer finding any carpet beetle larvae.

In conclusion, one of our readers discovered a small, brown worm-like organism in his bed. We are confident that the creature is a carpet beetle larva. In order to get rid of carpet beetle larvae, our reader will need to begin a daily cleaning routine to get rid of their potential food sources.

 

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"Worm" Found in Bed Sheets is Probably Carpet Beetle Larva
Article Name
"Worm" Found in Bed Sheets is Probably Carpet Beetle Larva
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A reader discovered a small, brown worm-like organism in his bed. We are confident that the creature is a carpet beetle larva.
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Author: Worm Researcher Dori

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