Warehouse beetles (Trogoderma variable) and larger cabinet beetles (Trogoderma inclusum) are two of several household pests that are closely related to carpet beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae).  Adults are typically 1/8 to 3/16-inch long, elongate oval in shape and brownish-black with variable patterns of transverse bands of pale yellow-to-off-white hairs on the back.  Warehouse and cabinet beetle larvae are up to 1/4-inch long, narrow, tapered, and yellowish to dark brown, and hairy.  Larvae are usually found within infested, stored items.

            In the home carpet beetles are pests of stored woolen clothing or wool carpeting.  Cabinet and warehouse beetles, on the other hand, are more likely to may be in grain products, cereals, seeds, candy, dried fruits, nuts, and pet foods.  Both insects will feed on animal-origin products including woolen clothing, dried milk and dead insects, including dead flies, boxelder bugs, and ladybugs in wall voids and attics.

            Control of cabinet and warehouse beetles requires locating and eliminating infested items (clothing, food products, etc.).  Often, the source may be difficult to find or there may not be a single source.  Carefully examine all susceptible foods and throw away foods that are infested.  Check accessible places where dead insects may accumulate. Thoroughly vacuum clean cabinets and shelves to pick up crawling insects and spilled or infested material.  Washing shelves with detergent, bleach, ammonia or disinfectants will not have any effect on stored product insect pests.