Carpet Beetle Larva in Bed: Allergic Reaction to Hairs, Not Bites

The fast, hairy larva on your bedsheet in Virginia is a carpet beetle larva (Dermestidae). It does not bite, but some people react to the long hairs (setae) with itchy, bite-like welts.

Action

1. Inspect around bed: spilled food, pet hair, woolens, dead insects in cracks.
2. Vacuum mattress, box spring, floor, baseboards.
3. Wash bedding hot. Dry high heat.
4. Store vulnerable items sealed.

See carpet beetle guide. One larva = minor. Reaction is allergic, not a bite.