What are the tiny brown worms in my house?

"I keep on spotting small brown worms in the house. They’re kind of gross. What could they be?"

If you’ve spotted what look like tiny brown worms in the house, that look a bit like caterpillars, the chances are they are insect larvae. No less unsettling than worms, but the problem is manageable.

Common types of ‘tiny brown worm’ larvae

Here are the pests most often responsible for these small, caterpillar-like larvae:

• Carpet beetle larvae: These are small, fuzzy brown larvae that feed on natural fibers and stored items.
• Moth larvae: This can include pantry moths or clothes moths, which feed on stored food or fabrics.
• Fly larvae: Some species, like drain flies, leave behind tiny brown larvae in the house, often near drains or trash

Why do I see small brown worms in the bathroom?

Spotting small brown worms in the bathroom usually means larvae have found moisture and organic matter to feed on. They may appear around drains, under sinks, or in corners where water collects. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are the most common places to see these pests.

How to handle them

If you’re seeing little brown worms in your house - the possible larvae - the best first step is to vacuum or clean them up and try to find the source. Check for infested fabrics, food items, or buildup in drains. Because these larvae develop into different pests depending on the species, and because they can be hidden in hard-to-reach areas, simply removing the larvae you can see doesn’t always solve the problem.

If you continue finding the larvae or the pests that result from them, just give us a call. Our pest control technicians can identify whether they’re carpet beetles, moths, or another pest, and provide a treatment plan.