Boric Acid for Pest-Damaged Carpets

Damaged Carpets

• The most likely culprits when it comes to pest-damaged carpets are carpet beetles. These small insects feed on pollen and nectar when they mature into adults. As larvae, they prefer to feed on animal-derived substances, like fur and feathers as well as silk and wool. They usually target wool carpets in storage areas, as they prefer dark, enclosed spaces. They can also feed on carpets hidden beneath furniture. Carpet beetles usually concentrate their feeding in one area and cause a great deal of damage to that one spot.

Boric Acid

• Boric acid is derived from boron, a naturally occurring compound. It kills insects in two ways: when ingested it acts as a stomach poison, and when it come in contact with the larvae’s bodies it kills them through dehydration. It is nontoxic for humans and pets like cats and dogs. It comes in the form of a soft, light powder and dissolves easily in water. To use it to kill pests in carpets, sprinkle it on the surface of the infested carpet as well as underneath, if possible. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it and the dead larvae up.

Drawbacks

• While boric acid will kill any insects in your pest-damaged carpet, it won’t do anything to repair the damage already done. It is a poor choice of repellent because you can’t leave it on a carpet for longer than three or four hours. Don’t apply boric acid to extremely old, delicate or valuable carpets. There is a risk that it could alter the color of or wear on the fibers. Always consult a specialist before doing work on a valuable carpet.

Considerations

• While boric acid is nontoxic, take precautions when using it. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling it; it can cause respiratory irritation. Keep kids and pets away because if they eat any of it, it can cause nausea and vomiting. To keep carpet beetles and their larvae away from your carpets, vacuum your home often, moving furniture to get into hidden areas. For carpets you are storing, keep them in airtight containers. Take them out once a year to inspect them for damage so you can catch any problems early.