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What is this insect ? This insect infested my couch under the cushions. It is very difficult to see an actual insect. White and orange brown color debris is present underside of cushions. White debris is fine a dust like. I detect an odor and am getting single bites on abdomen and one on arm several days apart. Vacuumed thoroughly but persistently returns. Couch was so bad I discarded it. Waited one year after thoroughly cleaning wood floor and room, then purchased new couch. This pest has returned and I found this one under my chair cushion in the adjoining room! I have looked at commons household pest but have not been able to identify this insect. #816657
Asked November 18, 2022, 1:25 PM EST
This insect has invaded my couches. It is difficult to spot an insect. As the only evidence is castings or dropping. Which are fine and white, some occasional miniature sesame shaped and brownish orange debris. Thorough vacuuming did not clear the furniture, as they continue to return. I discarded the couch, throughly cleaned the room and waited a year before getting a new couch.
I have had the couch for 6 months and see the same insect evidence under the cushions! It presents a bad odor and I am getting single itchy bites a few days apart.
mine on abdomen and a week before a single bite on my arm.
I just throughly vacuumed the black underside of the cushions with not a spot left and overnighted it is there. Looks like harmless dust mainly!
The white chair shows black hairs? I found this insect on the white chair underside which is in an adjoining room.
I have not been able to identify this pest through the pest identification images.
Thank you for you help!
Dutchess County New York
Expert Response
I think you may have a varied carpet beetle from your photos and description. See this link Carpet Beetles | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)
Here is a link for management and how to get rid of: Carpet Beetle Management Guidelines--UC IPM (ucanr.edu),
In the meantime, try sprinkling diatomaceous earth (found in local garden shops or Lowe's type stores), wait a few days and then vacuum it off.
- Sanitation is very important. Thorough vacuuming of carpeting, along baseboards, under furniture, and in closets is recommended. Dispose of vacuum cleaner bag outdoors.
- Pay particular attention to woolens. Make sure to properly clean wool clothing before storage. Soiled wool is particularly attractive to carpet beetles.
Good luck and hope this information is helpful.
