Brown bugs in the house

If you’re noticing small brown bugs in your house, they could be one of several common pests. Here’s how to identify and deal with them:

Table of Contents

Carpet Beetles
- Appearance: Tiny (1–4 mm), oval-shaped, with speckled brown/black shells.
- Signs: Larvae (hairy, worm-like) damage fabrics, carpets, and stored food.
- Fix: Vacuum regularly, wash fabrics in hot water, and use boric acid in infested areas.

Cockroaches (German or American)
- Appearance: Light to dark brown, ½–2 inches long, fast-moving, with long antennae.
- Signs: Musty odor, droppings (like coffee grounds), and sightings at night.
- Fix: Seal cracks, set bait traps, and use roach gel or diatomaceous earth.
Drugstore Beetles or Cigarette Beetles
- Appearance: Small (2–3 mm), round, reddish-brown, with a humped back.
- Signs: Holes in pantry items (flour, cereal, spices).
- Fix: Toss infested food, store dry goods in airtight containers, and use pheromone traps.
Bed Bugs
- Appearance: Flat, reddish-brown, apple-seed-sized (after feeding).
- Signs: Blood spots on sheets, itchy bites in lines/clusters.
- Fix: Heat treatment, professional extermination, and encase mattresses.

Stink Bugs (Brown Marmorated)
- Appearance: Shield-shaped, ¾-inch long, mottled brown.
- Signs: Odor when crushed, clustering near windows in fall.
- Fix: Seal entry points, vacuum them up (don’t squash!), and use soapy water traps.
Silverfish
- Appearance: Silvery-brown, teardrop-shaped, with three tail-like appendages.
- Signs: Damage to books, wallpaper, or starched fabrics.
- Fix: Reduce humidity, use cedar shavings, or sprinkle diatomaceous earth.

If the infestation is severe, consider a pest control professional.

Need help identifying a specific bug? Share a photo or description! 🕵️♂️