What Do Carpet Beetles Eat?

Carpet beetles feed on a variety of organic materials, primarily those that contain keratin, wool, silk, and other natural fibers. Their diet varies depending on their life stage:

Larvae (Destructive Stage)

Carpet beetle larvae are the most damaging because they consume organic materials, including:

Animal-based fabrics – Wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, and felt.
Household items – Carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, blankets, and clothing (especially those made of natural fibers).
Dead insects and animals – They may feed on dried insect carcasses, animal hides, and even pet hair.
Stored food (occasionally) – Some species may infest dried foods like flour, cereals, and pet food.
Books and paper products – Especially if they contain glue or animal-based sizing.

Adults (Non-Destructive Stage)

Adult carpet beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar from flowers and plants. They are often found outdoors or near windows as they seek light.

Since the larvae cause damage to household items, it’s crucial to control infestations early. If you’re dealing with carpet beetles, targeted cleaning, vacuuming, and pest control measures can help prevent serious damage.

Do Carpet Beetles Eat Wood?

No, carpet beetles do not eat wood. They primarily feed on organic materials like wool, silk, leather, feathers, and other natural fibers. The larvae, which cause the most damage, seek out fabrics and organic debris, but they do not bore into or consume wood like termites or wood-boring beetles.

However, if you find carpet beetles near wooden furniture, floors, or baseboards, they may be there because:

There are fabric materials nearby (e.g., wool rugs, upholstered furniture, or lint buildup).
They are feeding on dust, pet hair, or dead insects that have accumulated in cracks or crevices in wooden structures.
They are attracted to light, as adult carpet beetles tend to gather near windows or wooden surfaces exposed to sunlight.

If you’re seeing damage to wood, another pest like termites or powderpost beetles may be responsible.