Where do fleas appear in an apartment?

How Fleas Enter an Apartment

From Pets

Unprotected Animals

Fleas infest an apartment primarily through animals that lack preventive treatment. When a pet or stray animal carries adult fleas or eggs, the insects spread to surrounding areas, creating a hidden infestation that can affect human occupants as well.

Typical sites where fleas establish themselves include:

Carpets and rugs, especially in high‑traffic zones where animals rest.
Upholstered furniture, where heat and moisture support egg development.
Bedding and pet blankets, providing a protected micro‑environment.
Cracks in flooring or baseboards, offering shelter for larvae and pupae.
Pet accessories such as collars, leashes, and toys that remain in contact with the animal’s skin.

Adult fleas feed on blood, lay eggs on the host, and drop them onto the environment. Unprotected animals continuously deposit new eggs, sustaining the cycle. Consequently, any area where the animal spends time becomes a potential reservoir for all life stages of the flea.

Effective control requires treating the animal with an approved flea‑preventive product and thorough cleaning of the identified locations. Vacuuming, laundering fabrics at high temperatures, and applying appropriate insecticides to carpets and cracks interrupt the life cycle and reduce the risk of re‑infestation.

Contact with Infested Animals

Fleas enter a dwelling primarily through animals that already carry the parasites. When a pet or stray animal steps onto carpet, upholstery, or bedding, adult fleas and their eggs are deposited directly onto those surfaces. The insects then spread to adjacent areas such as floorboards, curtains, and furniture seams, creating a network of infestation that can persist without ongoing animal contact.

Typical pathways of transmission include:

Direct skin contact with an infested animal, allowing fleas to crawl onto the person’s clothing or body.
Contact with the animal’s sleeping area, where eggs hatch and larvae develop in the surrounding fabric.
Interaction with grooming tools, collars, or leashes that have collected flea debris.
Handling of contaminated litter boxes, cages, or carriers that harbor flea stages.

Preventive measures focus on eliminating the source: treat all resident animals with approved flea control products, quarantine new or rescued animals until they are cleared, and regularly clean and vacuum areas where animals rest. Continuous monitoring of pet health and environmental hygiene limits the spread of fleas throughout the apartment.

From People

Clothing and Shoes

Fleas frequently use garments and footwear as temporary shelters when searching for a host. The fabric of clothing traps heat and carbon dioxide, creating an environment that attracts adult fleas and their larvae. Shoes, especially those stored in closets or under beds, provide dark, undisturbed spaces where fleas can hide and lay eggs.

Signs of infestation in clothing and shoes include small, moving specks that appear after shaking the items, reddish‑brown bite marks on the skin after wearing them, and a strong, sweet odor from the insects. Larvae may be visible as tiny, cream‑colored worms in seams, linings, or shoe interiors.

Preventive measures focus on regular cleaning and inspection:

Wash all clothing in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum closets, drawers, and shoe racks daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Store shoes in sealed plastic containers or treat them with a flea‑insecticide spray approved for indoor use.
Rotate and air out rarely worn garments and footwear to disrupt flea life cycles.

If an infestation is confirmed, treat the affected items with an appropriate insecticide, repeat washing and vacuuming for several weeks, and consider professional pest control to eliminate hidden populations throughout the residence.

Bags and Personal Belongings

Fleas frequently infest luggage, backpacks, and other personal items that are stored or transported within a residence. Eggs and larvae can survive in the seams, pockets, and fabric folds of these containers, especially when the items have been exposed to infested environments such as hotels, public transport, or outdoor areas. Adult fleas may hide in the lining of bags, feeding on any stray hosts that come into contact with the material.

Typical signs of flea presence in personal belongings include:

Small, dark specks moving within fabric fibers;
Itchy bites on skin after handling the item;
A fine, powdery residue resembling sand, which is flea feces;
Presence of tiny, white, oval-shaped eggs near seams.

Preventive measures:

Inspect and shake out all bags before bringing them indoors.
Wash removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
Vacuum interiors of luggage and backpacks, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister.
Apply an appropriate insecticide spray to non-washable items, following label instructions.
Store rarely used bags in sealed plastic containers to block re‑infestation.

If fleas are detected, treat the affected items promptly and monitor surrounding areas, such as carpets and pet bedding, to prevent spread throughout the apartment. Regular cleaning and careful handling of personal belongings reduce the risk of a flea population establishing itself in the home.

From the Outdoors

Yards and Gardens

Fleas frequently infiltrate residential interiors from outdoor environments where they thrive in warm, humid conditions. Gardens, lawns, and surrounding yards serve as primary reservoirs; adult fleas and their immature stages reside in soil, leaf litter, and low‑lying vegetation. When pets or humans traverse these spaces, they transport fleas onto shoes, clothing, or directly onto animal fur, introducing the insects into the home.

Typical indoor locations where fleas become noticeable include:

Pet bedding and sleeping areas where fleas lay eggs after feeding.
Carpets and rugs adjacent to entry doors, especially those with fringe or plush fibers that trap soil particles.
Upholstered furniture near windows or balconies that open onto garden spaces.
Cracks and gaps around baseboards, door thresholds, and utility openings that connect indoor flooring to exterior ground.
Indoor plant pots and decorative containers that contain soil sourced from outdoor gardens.

Effective control begins with addressing the external sources. Regular mowing, removal of excess foliage, and treatment of garden soil with appropriate insecticides reduce flea populations outside the dwelling. Maintaining a barrier—such as matting at entry points and sealing gaps—prevents insects from migrating indoors. Inside the apartment, frequent vacuuming of carpets, washing of pet linens, and prompt treatment of any detected fleas interrupt their life cycle and limit further spread.

Shared Building Areas

Fleas often spread beyond private rooms and establish colonies in areas accessible to all residents. These zones provide easy movement for infested pets and create conditions favorable for flea development.

Common building spaces where fleas are frequently detected include:

Hallway carpets and runner rugs, especially near entry doors where pets are walked.
Laundry facilities, where damp clothing and towels retain moisture that supports flea eggs and larvae.
Shared storage closets containing pet bedding, blankets, or seasonal clothing.
Stairwell landings with upholstered railings or fabric-wrapped handrails.
Community pet relief areas, including indoor dog runs or pet waste stations, where flea debris can accumulate.

Inspection of these locations, combined with regular cleaning and targeted insecticide treatment, reduces the risk of infestation spreading throughout the residence.

Wild Animals

Fleas are external parasites that frequently exploit wild vertebrates as hosts. When rodents, squirrels, birds, or stray mammals enter a residence, they can deposit flea eggs and larvae, establishing a persistent infestation that spreads beyond the animal’s immediate contact.

Common wild carriers of fleas in residential settings include:

House mice and rats, which often travel through wall voids and crawl spaces.
Eastern gray squirrels that may nest in attics or eaves.
Pigeons and sparrows that roost in balconies, vents, or chimneys.
Stray cats and dogs that wander through yards and slip under doors.

These carriers introduce flea stages into the home’s microhabitats. Typical locations where fleas become detectable are:

Carpeted floors and area rugs, where larvae feed on organic debris.
Upholstered furniture, especially pet‑friendly couches and chairs.
Bedding and mattress seams, providing warmth and blood meals.
Cracks in baseboards, under floorboards, and behind radiators, offering protected development sites.

Effective control requires eliminating wildlife access points, sealing entry gaps, and employing targeted insecticide treatments in the identified microhabitats. Regular monitoring of rodent activity and prompt removal of nesting materials reduce the likelihood of flea establishment.

From Infested Items

Used Furniture

Used furniture can serve as a primary reservoir for fleas in a residential setting. Fleas exploit the fabric, seams, and internal cavities of second‑hand sofas, chairs, and mattresses, where they remain protected from routine cleaning. The dense padding of cushions and the under‑frame of beds provide stable micro‑environments with adequate humidity and temperature for flea development.

Typical infestation sites within pre‑owned furnishings include:

Upholstery folds and crevices where eggs and larvae are concealed.
Springs and internal frames of sofas that are difficult to reach.
Mattress edges and box‑spring voids that retain organic debris.
Wooden or metal legs with accumulated dust and pet hair.

Inspection should involve:

Removing all removable covers and vacuuming thoroughly.
Examining seams, stitching, and hidden pockets with a bright light.
Using a fine‑toothed comb on fabric surfaces to dislodge any attached insects.
Applying an appropriate insecticide or steam treatment to treated areas.

Prevention measures focus on eliminating used items that have not been sanitized, treating newly acquired pieces before placement, and maintaining regular vacuuming of all upholstered surfaces. By targeting the specific habitats within second‑hand furniture, flea populations can be reduced and confined to minimal locations within the apartment.

Second-hand Textiles

Fleas frequently infiltrate residential spaces through contaminated fabrics that have been previously owned. Second‑hand textiles—such as mattresses, sofas, curtains, rugs, and discarded clothing—can harbor eggs, larvae, and adult insects, creating a reservoir for infestation.

Typical areas where fleas are detected in a flat include:

Mattress surfaces and pillowcases
Sofa cushions and upholstery
Area rugs and floor‑covering mats
Drapes and window curtains
Stored garments and laundry piles
Pet bedding made from reclaimed fabrics

The risk intensifies when these items are introduced without inspection or treatment. Flea life stages remain viable in the fibers for several weeks, allowing the population to spread to adjacent surfaces and to pets. Immediate action after acquiring used textiles should involve thorough washing at high temperatures, vacuuming of seams and folds, and, if necessary, application of an approved insecticide to eliminate hidden stages.

Common Hiding Spots for Fleas in an Apartment

Pet-Related Areas

Pet Bedding and Blankets

Pet bedding and blankets provide ideal micro‑habitats for fleas. Warmth, moisture, and the constant presence of a host create conditions that support adult flea activity, egg laying, and larval development. Fleas embed their eggs in the fabric fibers, where they are protected from cleaning and remain viable for several days.

Adult fleas feed on the pet while it rests on the bedding, then retreat to the same material to reproduce.
Eggs drop onto the blanket surface and fall into seams, folds, and stuffing.
Larvae feed on organic debris, skin flakes, and adult flea feces that accumulate in the fabric.
Pupae form within the insulated layers of the bedding, emerging when vibrations or carbon dioxide indicate a nearby host.

Regular laundering at temperatures above 60 °C, thorough vacuuming of the mattress and surrounding area, and periodic replacement of heavily soiled blankets reduce flea populations and prevent reinfestation throughout the residence.

Carpets and Rugs near Pet Areas

Fleas concentrate in carpeted and rugged zones that are close to where pets spend time. The fibers retain heat, moisture, and organic debris, creating an environment that supports flea development and survival.

Warmth from pet bodies keeps the carpet surface at a temperature suitable for flea eggs and larvae.
Moisture from pet activity and occasional spills raises humidity, which speeds egg hatching.
Skin flakes, hair, and dander become trapped in the pile, providing a food source for immature fleas.
Proximity to pet bedding or feeding areas allows easy migration of adult fleas onto hosts.
Dense pile and low‑traffic sections hinder thorough cleaning, allowing infestations to persist.

Effective management requires routine vacuuming with a high‑efficiency filter, frequent washing of removable rugs, and targeted insecticide treatment in the carpet area surrounding pet zones.

Furniture where Pets Rest

Fleas concentrate on the surfaces where domestic animals rest, because these areas provide blood meals, warmth, and shelter for the insects and their developing stages.

Sofas and armchairs – fabric upholstery traps flea eggs and larvae; pets often curl up on cushions, depositing skin debris that serves as food for immature fleas.
Couch cushions and slipcovers – removable covers can hide eggs and pupae; frequent pet contact increases infestation risk.
Pet beds and mats – dedicated sleeping areas are ideal breeding grounds; the confined space retains humidity and organic matter.
Recliners and lounge chairs – leather or vinyl surfaces may appear clean, but seams and crevices collect pet hair and dander, supporting flea development.
Window seats and built‑in benches – enclosed spaces limit airflow, creating micro‑environments favorable for flea survival.

These furnishings become primary reservoirs for fleas within a residence. Regular vacuuming, laundering of removable covers, and targeted insecticide treatment of the listed items reduce the likelihood of infestation.

Upholstered Furniture

Sofas and Armchairs

Fleas commonly infest upholstered seating within a residence. Sofas and armchairs provide a protected environment that supports all life stages of the parasite.

The fabric covering, internal padding, and hidden seams create stable humidity and temperature, allowing eggs to hatch and larvae to develop unnoticed. Adult fleas hide in the same micro‑habitats while waiting for a host to pass by.

Typical locations on these pieces include:

Creases and folds of cushions
Stitching lines and seam gaps
Underneath removable covers
Inside the frame cavity or spring coils
Between layers of foam and batting

Detection involves inspecting these areas with a bright light, using a fine‑toothed comb, or placing white paper beneath the furniture to reveal falling fleas. Effective treatment combines thorough vacuuming, steam cleaning, and targeted insecticide application to both surface and concealed sections. Regular maintenance of upholstery reduces the likelihood of re‑infestation.

Cushions and Pillows

Fleas frequently infest soft furnishings that remain in close contact with pets or human occupants. Cushions on sofas, armchairs, and floor seating provide a warm, sheltered environment where adult fleas can rest between blood meals. The fabric’s fibers retain moisture and body heat, creating conditions ideal for flea development.

Pillows, especially those used for sleeping or lounging, accumulate pet dander, skin cells, and occasional blood residues. These organic materials serve as food sources for flea larvae, allowing the life cycle to progress unnoticed beneath the pillow cover. Because pillows are often placed on beds or couches, they act as transfer points, spreading fleas to other areas of the dwelling.

Key indicators of infestation in cushions and pillows include:

Small, dark specks (adult fleas) moving on the surface.
Tiny, white, granular particles (flea feces) on fabric.
Presence of flea eggs or larvae when fabric is shaken over a white surface.

Control measures focus on eliminating the flea population within these items:

Remove all cushion covers and pillowcases; wash at ≥ 60 °C or use a hot‑water cycle with a flea‑specific detergent.
Vacuum cushions and pillows thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and folds; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Apply an appropriate insecticide spray or powder labeled for indoor use, following manufacturer instructions.
Replace worn or heavily infested cushions and pillows with new, tightly woven items that limit flea access.
Maintain low indoor humidity (below 50 %) and regular cleaning schedules to discourage flea development.

By targeting cushions and pillows directly, the primary refuges for adult fleas and developing larvae are addressed, reducing the overall flea burden within the residence.

Carpets and Rugs

High-Traffic Areas

Fleas concentrate in zones where residents move frequently, because these areas provide easy access to hosts and retain microscopic debris that supports larval development.

Typical high‑traffic locations include:

Entryways and hallways, where shoes and pets deposit eggs and skin flakes.
Living‑room carpets and rugs, especially beneath furniture that is regularly sat on.
Kitchen and dining floors, where food crumbs and water spills create favorable micro‑environments.
Staircase steps and landings, which experience constant foot traffic and often lack thorough cleaning.

These spaces accumulate organic matter and experience repeated disturbance, allowing fleas to spread swiftly throughout the dwelling. Regular vacuuming, steam cleaning, and targeted insecticide treatment in these zones reduce infestation risk and interrupt the flea life cycle.

Edges and Corners

Fleas concentrate in peripheral zones of a dwelling because these areas provide shelter, reduced disturbance, and favorable micro‑climates. Edges and corners of rooms create pockets where dust, hair, and humidity accumulate, offering ideal conditions for adult fleas, larvae, and pupae.

Low‑traffic boundaries limit human and pet movement, allowing fleas to remain undisturbed. Tight spaces retain moisture and organic debris, supporting the development of immature stages. Warmth generated by adjacent walls or flooring further enhances survival rates in these hidden niches.

Typical locations include:

Baseboards and molding where wall meets floor.
The interior corners of closets, cabinets, and under‑shelf spaces.
Gaps behind radiators, vents, and heating ducts.
The edges of carpet rolls, especially where carpet meets hardwood or tile.
The perimeter of upholstered furniture, particularly where cushions abut the frame.

Effective inspection requires a systematic sweep of all edge and corner zones with a fine‑toothed comb or a flea‑specific vacuum attachment. After detection, apply an insect growth regulator or a residual adulticide directly to these sites, ensuring coverage of cracks, seams, and crevices. Repeat treatment according to product guidelines and monitor for re‑infestation by re‑examining the same peripheral areas weekly.

Cracks and Crevices

Floorboards

Fleas commonly inhabit the spaces between wooden floorboards. The gaps and cracks provide shelter, moisture, and a stable temperature, allowing larvae to develop away from direct contact with cleaning agents. Adult fleas can move onto the surface to feed on hosts, then retreat back into the concealed voids.

Eggs are deposited on the underside of boards, where they remain hidden from routine vacuuming.
Larvae feed on organic debris, skin flakes, and flea feces that accumulate in the crevices.
Pupae form cocoons within the same protected environment, emerging when vibrations or carbon‑dioxide signals a host nearby.

Inspection of floorboards should include lifting loose planks, probing seams with a flashlight, and feeling for fine movement or powdery debris. If infestation is confirmed, targeted treatment may involve:

Applying an insecticide spray formulated for cracks and crevices, following label instructions for concentration and exposure time.
Introducing a dust‑based product (e.g., diatomaceous earth) into the gaps, allowing it to remain undisturbed for several days.
Replacing severely damaged or warped boards that cannot be adequately treated.

Regular maintenance—sealing cracks, reducing humidity, and periodic vacuuming of the subfloor area—limits the suitability of floorboards as a flea habitat and helps prevent re‑infestation.

Walls

Fleas can inhabit the structural components of a residence, and walls are a common site. They exploit gaps, seams, and concealed spaces where humidity and host scent accumulate.

Cracks in plaster or drywall provide shelter and a route to adjacent rooms.
Gaps behind baseboards allow movement from flooring to wall cavities.
Insulation material retains moisture, creating a favorable micro‑environment.
Wallpaper adhesives may trap organic debris, attracting flea larvae.
Electrical outlet covers and wall sockets often contain tiny voids that serve as hiding places.

Fleas enter these areas when they hitch a ride on pets, humans, or infested items. Once inside, they lay eggs that hatch into larvae, feeding on organic matter such as skin flakes and flea feces. The larvae develop in the dark, protected spaces of wall voids, emerging as adults when conditions become suitable.

Inspection involves probing for small dark specks, a faint odor, or movement near baseboard joints and wall seams. Professional treatment may require insecticidal dust or foam applied directly into wall cavities, followed by sealing visible cracks and maintaining low humidity to disrupt the flea life cycle.

Baseboards

Baseboards provide a protected environment that fleas often exploit in residential settings. The narrow gap between the wall and flooring creates a stable micro‑climate with limited disturbance, allowing flea eggs, larvae, and pupae to develop undetected.

Moisture retained in the crevice supports the growth of organic debris, which serves as food for flea larvae.
Warmth from adjacent heating systems raises temperatures to levels conducive to rapid life‑cycle progression.
Limited foot traffic reduces the likelihood of mechanical removal, enabling populations to persist.

Inspection of baseboards should include visual assessment for specks of dark excrement, small moving insects, and accumulated dust. Vacuuming the area with a nozzle attachment and applying an appropriate insecticide to the seams can interrupt the development cycle. Regular cleaning, combined with sealing gaps where possible, reduces the suitability of baseboards as a flea habitat.

Dark and Secluded Spots

Under Furniture

Fleas commonly inhabit the space beneath sofas, chairs, and beds because it provides darkness, warmth, and protection from cleaning activities. The gap between the floor and the furniture legs creates a micro‑environment where adult fleas can rest and lay eggs without disturbance.

Typical signs of flea activity under furniture include:

Small, dark specks (feces) on fabric or floorboards.
Tiny, white larvae visible in dust accumulations.
Itchy bites on occupants after prolonged contact with the area.
Presence of adult fleas jumping when the furniture is moved.

Factors that make these areas attractive to fleas:

Accumulated dust and pet hair serve as food for larvae.
Limited airflow keeps the temperature stable.
Limited exposure to vacuuming or sweeping reduces removal of eggs.

Effective control measures focus on eliminating the habitat:

Remove all items stored beneath the furniture and clean the floor thoroughly with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
Wash removable covers and cushions in hot water (≥ 60 °C) to kill any life stages.
Apply a flea‑specific insecticide spray to the undersides of legs and the surrounding floor area, following label instructions.
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule to prevent dust and hair buildup.

By targeting the underside of furniture, homeowners reduce the primary refuge for fleas, interrupting the life cycle and minimizing the risk of re‑infestation throughout the apartment.

Closets

Closets provide an ideal environment for fleas in a residence. Darkness, limited airflow, and stored fabrics create a stable micro‑climate that protects flea eggs, larvae and pupae from disturbance. Fleas can infiltrate clothing, bedding, and upholstery stored in the closet, using the material as both shelter and food source for developing stages.

Signs of infestation in closets include small, fast‑moving specks on fabric, a gritty residue known as flea dirt, and occasional bites on exposed skin after handling stored items. The presence of pet hair, especially from dogs or cats that sleep in the closet, increases the likelihood of a flea population establishing itself.

Preventive actions

Vacuum the closet thoroughly, paying attention to seams and corners, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Wash all textiles on the hottest setting safe for the material; dry them on high heat.
Reduce humidity with a dehumidifier or by keeping the closet doors open periodically.
Apply an insecticide label‑approved for indoor use to cracks, baseboards, and the underside of shelves, following manufacturer instructions.
Regularly groom pets and use veterinarian‑recommended flea control products to limit the number of adult fleas that can enter the closet.

Consistent monitoring and prompt treatment of any detected stages prevent a small infestation from developing into a widespread problem throughout the apartment.

Storage Areas

Fleas frequently establish colonies in the storage spaces of a residence. These areas provide the darkness, stable temperature, and limited disturbance that adult fleas and developing larvae require.

Typical storage locations where fleas are found include:

Closets that hold pet bedding, blankets, or unused clothing.
Attics and crawl spaces with accumulated dust, insulation, and occasional pet access.
Basements or utility rooms where humidity levels remain elevated.
Garages or sheds containing stored gardening equipment, mulch, or wood piles.
Underneath furniture that is rarely moved, such as sofas, bookshelves, or cabinets.

Flea larvae feed on organic debris, skin flakes, and adult flea feces that accumulate in these environments. High humidity and low light accelerate development, allowing the life cycle to complete within a few weeks. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and the removal of clutter reduce the organic material that sustains larvae. Applying an appropriate insecticide to storage areas, followed by thorough vacuuming, interrupts the life cycle and prevents re‑infestation. Monitoring for adult fleas with a fine‑toothed comb or sticky traps helps confirm the effectiveness of control measures.

Bedding and Linens

Mattresses

Mattresses provide an ideal environment for fleas because they offer warmth, moisture, and direct contact with hosts. Adult fleas may climb onto the fabric while seeking blood meals, and their larvae thrive in the organic debris that accumulates in the bedding.

Signs of infestation in a mattress include:

Small, moving specks on the surface or edges, especially after the occupant rises.
Dark, pepper‑like droppings in seams or on the mattress cover.
Itching or red welts after waking, often concentrated on areas that rested on the bed.

How fleas reach a mattress:

Infested pets jump onto the bed, depositing adult fleas and eggs.
Fleas dropped from carpets or floorboards migrate upward during nighttime activity.
Human transport, such as clothing or luggage, can introduce fleas into the sleeping area.

Prevention measures:

Wash bedding weekly in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and tumble dry on high heat.
Vacuum the mattress surface and surrounding area daily; discard the vacuum bag promptly.
Use a mattress encasement with a zippered closure to block flea movement.
Treat pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products and keep them off the bed when possible.

If an infestation is confirmed, apply an insecticide labeled for indoor use to the mattress and surrounding floor, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Repeat treatment after two weeks to target emerging adults. Professional pest control may be required for severe cases.

Sheets and Blankets

Fleas often colonize the soft furnishings where humans and pets spend extended periods of rest. Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets provide a stable micro‑environment that supports flea development and feeding.

The fabric’s warmth and occasional moisture from sweat or pet saliva create conditions ideal for adult fleas to remain close to a blood source. Fleas can hide in the seams, folds, and threads of bedding, where they are difficult to detect during routine cleaning. Their small size allows them to move beneath the surface of woven material, remaining protected from surface‑level disturbances.

Typical indicators of infestation in bedding include:

Small, dark specks resembling pepper on the fabric surface.
Presence of flea feces, a fine, black dust near seams.
Bites on skin that appear in clusters around the torso and legs after sleeping.
A noticeable increase in pet scratching or grooming behavior on the bed.

Effective mitigation focuses on eliminating the flea life cycle within the linens:

Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and removable covers at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes.
Dry the laundered items on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 20 minutes.
Vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding area thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately.
Apply a certified flea treatment to the mattress and upholstered surfaces, following label instructions for concentration and re‑application intervals.
Encase the mattress and pillows in insect‑proof covers to prevent re‑infestation.

Regular laundering of bedding and prompt treatment of any detected fleas reduce the likelihood of a persistent infestation within the apartment’s sleeping areas.