Why do fleas get into a house and how can they be eliminated?

The Unwanted Guests: Understanding Flea Infestations

What Attracts Fleas to Your Home?

Pet Owners and Fleas

Fleas locate a residence primarily because they detect a suitable blood source and a favorable microclimate. Warm indoor temperatures, humidity levels above 50 % and the presence of animals provide the conditions needed for development from egg to adult within a few weeks.

Pet owners introduce fleas when animals move between outdoors and indoors without prior treatment, when grooming is infrequent, or when bedding and carpets remain untreated. Adult fleas on a dog or cat can drop into the home environment, lay eggs, and establish a breeding cycle that quickly spreads to other pets and humans.

Effective prevention relies on consistent veterinary care and environmental hygiene. Regular application of veterinarian‑approved flea preventatives, weekly combing with a fine‑toothed flea comb, and frequent washing of pet bedding interrupt the life cycle before eggs are deposited.

To eradicate an active infestation, follow a coordinated approach:

Treat each pet with a fast‑acting adulticide and a long‑acting growth regulator; repeat according to product instructions.
Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstery and floor seams; discard vacuum bags or empty canisters immediately.
Wash all removable fabrics (bedding, blankets, curtains) in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger to cracks, baseboards and pet resting zones; ensure proper ventilation during use.
Monitor for two weeks, repeating pet treatment and environmental cleaning if live fleas are observed.

Sustained control requires monthly preventive medication for all animals, periodic deep cleaning of the home, and prompt attention to any new outdoor exposure. This systematic regimen eliminates existing fleas and prevents re‑infestation.

Wildlife Encounters

Fleas frequently appear in residences because they exploit the natural movement of wild animals that venture close to human dwellings. Rodents, rabbits, and squirrels often carry adult fleas or immature stages in their nests. When these mammals seek shelter, food, or water, they may enter attics, crawl spaces, or garden areas adjacent to a house, providing a bridge for parasites to reach indoor environments. Domestic pets that hunt or roam outdoors can also acquire fleas from wildlife, subsequently introducing the insects into the home.

The infestation process follows a predictable pattern. Adult fleas lay eggs on the host or in the surrounding environment; eggs hatch into larvae that feed on organic debris, then develop into pupae hidden in dark, humid locations. When a suitable host passes by, the pupae emerge as adult fleas ready to bite. This cycle can continue unchecked if the original wildlife source remains active.

Effective elimination requires a coordinated approach:

Identify and remove wildlife habitats near the property (e.g., seal entry points, clear brush, eliminate rodent burrows).
Treat pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products to stop the parasite from reproducing on the animal.
Apply indoor insecticides or flea powders to areas where larvae and pupae are likely to reside (carpets, baseboards, pet bedding).
Use vacuum cleaners regularly, disposing of the bag or canister content immediately to destroy eggs and larvae.
Install physical barriers such as window screens and door sweeps to prevent future wildlife ingress.

Long‑term prevention depends on maintaining a wildlife‑free perimeter, monitoring pet activity, and conducting periodic inspections of the home’s interior for signs of flea activity. By addressing both the external wildlife source and the internal life cycle, households can achieve lasting control of flea infestations.

Uninvited Flea Travelers

Fleas reach indoor environments primarily by attaching to mobile carriers. Pets arriving from outdoor areas, stray animals, rodents, and humans returning from infested locations transport adult insects and immature stages. Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae can also be introduced with second‑hand furniture, bedding, or items that have been stored in damp, sheltered spaces. Warm, humid conditions inside a house accelerate development from egg to adult, allowing a small number of hitchhikers to establish a breeding colony.

Effective eradication requires a coordinated approach that targets the parasites on hosts, in the environment, and in the life cycle stages that are hidden from view.

Treat all animals with a veterinarian‑approved adulticide or growth regulator; repeat according to product guidelines.
Wash bedding, pet blankets, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat to destroy eggs and larvae.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation.
Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor flea control to baseboards, cracks, and under furniture; follow safety instructions precisely.
Use flea traps or sticky pads in areas where adult activity is observed to monitor and reduce adult populations.
Consider professional pest‑management services for severe infestations or when structural treatment is required.

Maintaining regular grooming of pets, limiting outdoor exposure during peak flea season, and keeping indoor humidity below 50 % reduce the likelihood of new introductions. Consistent application of the measures above eliminates existing colonies and prevents future incursions.

The Flea Life Cycle: A Persistent Problem

Egg Stage

Flea eggs are microscopic, oval, and whitish, measuring about 0.5 mm. Female fleas deposit them on the host’s fur; they fall off during movement and accumulate in bedding, carpets, upholstery, and floor seams where humidity and temperature remain moderate. An egg hatches within two to five days, releasing a larva that feeds on organic debris and adult flea feces.

When a flea‑infested animal enters a residence, the animal carries thousands of eggs that quickly disperse into the indoor environment. The eggs’ ability to remain viable for several days allows them to colonize hidden microhabitats, creating a reservoir that sustains the infestation even after the host is removed.

Effective eradication of the egg stage requires a combination of mechanical and chemical measures:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation.
Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
Apply insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture; these substances interrupt development before hatching.
Use steam cleaning on carpets and upholstery; temperatures above 50 °C kill eggs and larvae on contact.
Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % with dehumidifiers, creating an unfavorable environment for egg viability.

Consistent application of these steps interrupts the flea life cycle at the earliest stage, preventing the buildup of adult populations and eliminating the source of household infestations.

Larval Stage

Flea larvae develop in the protected microhabitats that form around a home’s carpet, bedding, and pet‑related debris. After adult fleas lay eggs, the tiny, white larvae emerge and immediately seek dark, humid locations rich in organic matter. Their primary food source consists of adult flea feces, which contain undigested blood, as well as skin flakes and other detritus. This diet allows the larvae to complete three molts before spinning cocoons and transforming into pupae.

The presence of larvae indicates that a breeding cycle has already been established inside the dwelling. Pets that carry adult fleas introduce eggs, while outdoor wildlife such as rodents or stray cats can deposit eggs near entry points. Once the larval population reaches a critical density, the risk of a sudden adult emergence—and subsequent biting—rises sharply.

Effective interruption of the larval stage requires a combination of environmental sanitation and targeted treatments:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the bag or empty the canister immediately to remove larvae and eggs.
Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers at temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F) to kill immature stages.
Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) labeled for indoor use; IGRs prevent larvae from maturing into adults.
Reduce indoor humidity below 50 % to create an unfavorable environment for larval development.
Treat cracks, baseboards, and pet resting areas with a residual adulticide that also contacts emerging adults from pupae.

By eliminating the food supply, denying suitable habitats, and employing chemical controls that target immature fleas, homeowners can break the life cycle and prevent future infestations.

Pupal Stage

The pupal stage follows the flea’s larval development and precedes the emergence of the adult. During this period, the larva spins a silken cocoon and undergoes metamorphosis, remaining inactive for several days to weeks depending on temperature, humidity, and availability of a host. Warm, humid conditions inside a home accelerate development, while cooler, dry environments prolong it. The cocoon protects the organism from many contact insecticides, making the pupal stage a critical point for persistent infestations.

Because pupae do not feed and are shielded by silk, conventional sprays that target adult fleas often fail to affect them. Effective eradication therefore requires strategies that reach or destroy the cocoon:

Apply insect growth regulators (IGRs) that prevent larval maturation and disrupt pupation.
Use residual powders or aerosols formulated to penetrate silk and kill dormant stages.
Increase indoor temperature above 95 °F (35 °C) for several hours to force emergence, then treat newly emerged adults immediately.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly, discarding the bag or cleaning the canister to remove cocooned pupae.
Wash bedding and pet linens in hot water (≥130 °F / 54 °C) to destroy hidden pupae.

Implementing these measures alongside routine adult flea control reduces the reservoir of future adults, breaking the life cycle and preventing re‑infestation of the dwelling.

Adult Flea

Adult fleas are wing‑less insects that feed exclusively on blood. After emerging from pupae, they seek a host within hours, using visual cues and body heat to locate mammals or birds. Their jumping ability, powered by a resilient protein pad, allows them to clear distances of up to 150 mm, facilitating rapid transfer from one host to another.

Fleas gain entry to residences primarily through infested pets, stray animals, or wildlife that wander indoors. They may also arrive on clothing, bedding, or second‑hand furniture that has housed an infected animal. Once inside, adult fleas establish colonies on carpets, bedding, and cracks where they can hide between feedings.

Effective elimination targets the adult stage directly and disrupts its life cycle:

Apply a veterinarian‑approved adulticide spray or fogger to carpets, rugs, and pet sleeping areas; follow label‑specified dwell times.
Vacuum thoroughly, focusing on seams, under furniture, and pet bedding; discard the bag or empty the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation.
Wash all removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat to kill attached fleas.
Treat pets with systemic or topical products that kill adult fleas within minutes; maintain a consistent dosing schedule.
Seal entry points such as gaps around doors, windows, and utility openings to limit new introductions.

Monitoring after treatment with a flea trap or sticky card confirms the reduction of adult activity. Repeating the control measures every 7–10 days for several weeks ensures that emerging adults from any remaining pupae are captured before they reproduce.

Eradicating Fleas: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Treating Your Pets

Topical Treatments

Topical flea treatments are applied directly to the pet’s skin or coat, delivering an insecticide that kills fleas on contact and prevents new infestations. Spot‑on formulations release a controlled dose that spreads across the animal’s body through natural oils, providing protection for up to a month. Sprays target the fur and surrounding environment, allowing rapid knock‑down of adult fleas and interrupting their life cycle. Creams and gels are useful for localized infestations, offering immediate relief while the active ingredient penetrates the exoskeleton.

Effective use requires precise dosing based on the animal’s weight, thorough application to the recommended area, and adherence to the product’s re‑treatment interval. Products containing fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin are widely validated for rapid flea mortality and low toxicity to mammals when applied correctly. Combining topical treatment with regular vacuuming, washing of bedding, and environmental insecticide sprays maximizes eradication, as adult fleas eliminated from the host cannot reproduce in the home.

Key considerations:

Verify the animal’s species and size before selection.
Apply to a clean, dry area to ensure absorption.
Monitor for adverse reactions such as skin irritation or excessive salivation.
Replace the treatment according to the manufacturer’s schedule to maintain continuous protection.

Oral Medications

Fleas reach indoor environments primarily through animals that enter the dwelling, by attaching to clothing, or by being carried in on wildlife. Once inside, they lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and cracks, allowing the population to expand rapidly.

Oral flea treatments act systemically, killing adult fleas that feed on the host’s blood and interrupting the reproductive cycle. This approach reduces the number of fleas that can drop off onto the floor and lay eggs, thereby addressing the infestation at its source.

Common oral products include:

Neurotoxic insecticides (e.g., nitenpyram) that provide rapid kill within hours.
Spinosad, which disrupts nervous system function and offers month‑long protection.
Insect growth regulators (e.g., lufenuron) that prevent egg development and larval maturation.

Correct use requires weighing the animal, selecting the formulation appropriate for its species and health status, and following the recommended dosing schedule. Veterinary guidance is advisable for initial treatment and for pets with pre‑existing conditions.

Safety considerations involve checking for contraindications such as pregnancy, liver disease, or concurrent medications that may interact. Monitoring for adverse reactions—vomiting, lethargy, or gastrointestinal upset—should be part of the treatment plan.

Oral medication alone does not eradicate an established infestation. Complementary actions, such as vacuuming carpets, laundering bedding at high temperatures, and applying residual insecticides to the environment, are necessary to remove eggs and larvae that persist after the host has been treated.

Flea Shampoos and Dips

Fleas enter residences primarily by attaching to animals that move between outdoor and indoor environments. Domestic pets, rodents, and wildlife such as squirrels or birds serve as carriers, allowing adult fleas to drop into carpet, bedding, or furniture once the host returns inside. Because flea life cycles include egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, a single infestation can expand rapidly if untreated.

Flea shampoos are liquid cleansers formulated to kill adult fleas on contact and to disrupt the development of eggs and larvae. Common active ingredients include pyrethrins, pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, cypermethrin), and insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Application guidelines typically require thorough wetting of the animal’s coat, a short dwell time (often 5–10 minutes), and thorough rinsing to prevent skin irritation. Repeated weekly use during peak flea season maintains adult mortality while the IGR component suppresses emerging juveniles.

Flea dips are concentrated solutions applied to the animal’s skin, usually at the base of the neck or along the back, where they form a residual layer that kills fleas for weeks. Ingredients often combine a fast‑acting adulticide (e.g., carbaryl or fipronil) with an IGR. Proper administration involves:

Measuring the correct dose based on animal weight.
Applying the solution evenly to the skin, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes.
Allowing the dip to dry before the animal contacts bedding or other surfaces.

Effective flea control integrates shampoos and dips with environmental measures. Regular vacuuming removes eggs and larvae from carpets, while washing bedding at high temperatures eliminates residual stages. Insecticidal sprays or foggers targeting indoor cracks and crevices complement topical treatments, creating a multi‑layered barrier that prevents re‑infestation. Consistent scheduling of both shampoo and dip applications, aligned with the flea life cycle (approximately 2–3 weeks from egg to adult), ensures comprehensive eradication.

Regular Grooming

Fleas commonly arrive in residences attached to dogs, cats, or other animals that roam outdoors, or through infested bedding, carpets, and wildlife that infiltrate the building. Once an adult flea hops onto a host, it can lay eggs that fall into the surrounding environment, creating a cycle that quickly spreads throughout the home.

Regular grooming interrupts this cycle by exposing fleas before they reproduce, removing them from the animal’s coat, and reducing the number of eggs deposited in the house. Grooming also allows owners to spot early infestations, limiting the need for extensive chemical treatments.

Effective grooming routine:

Brush each pet daily with a fine‑toothed flea comb.
Inspect the comb after each pass for live insects, eggs, or dark specks.
Bathe pets weekly with a flea‑specific shampoo or a mild soap if chemical exposure is a concern.
Trim long hair to facilitate combing and improve skin health.
Clean the grooming tools after each use to prevent cross‑contamination.

Combining consistent grooming with environmental sanitation—vacuuming carpets, washing bedding at high temperatures, and applying spot‑on or oral flea preventatives—provides a comprehensive strategy that prevents fleas from establishing a foothold inside the dwelling.

Decontaminating Your Home Environment

Vacuuming and Cleaning

Fleas infiltrate homes in search of blood meals, shelter, and suitable humidity. Outdoor infestations, pet movement, or carried items introduce the insects, which quickly locate indoor environments that provide warmth and hosts.

Vacuuming directly interrupts the flea development cycle. A high‑efficiency vacuum removes adult fleas, immature stages, and eggs embedded in carpets, rugs, upholstery, and floor cracks. Immediate disposal of the vacuum bag or thorough cleaning of the canister prevents re‑infestation.

Use a vacuum equipped with strong suction and a HEPA filter.
Vacuum all floor surfaces, including edges and under furniture, for at least 10 minutes per room.
Empty the collection chamber into a sealed bag and discard it outside the house.
Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks, then weekly for another month.

Cleaning complements vacuuming by eliminating residual organic matter that supports flea growth. Wash pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Mop hard floors with a detergent solution, then apply a flea‑specific spray if necessary. Regular laundering of curtains and upholstery covers reduces hidden egg deposits.

Consistent vacuuming and thorough cleaning create an environment hostile to fleas, breaking their reproductive cycle and facilitating long‑term eradication.

Washing Bedding and Fabrics

Fleas infiltrate indoor environments by hitchhiking on pets, wildlife, or human clothing. Once inside, they lay eggs in areas where hosts rest, particularly on bedding and other fabrics. These materials provide warmth and humidity, creating ideal conditions for egg development and larval growth.

Effective control begins with thorough laundering of all removable textiles. Use water heated to at least 130 °F (54 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes; this temperature kills adult fleas, eggs, and larvae. Add a detergent that remains effective at high temperatures to enhance removal of organic residues that attract insects. After washing, dry items on a high‑heat setting for at least 20 minutes to ensure any surviving stages are eliminated.

Regular laundering schedules reduce reinfestation risk:

Wash pet bedding, blankets, and human sheets weekly.
Include cushion covers, pillowcases, and removable sofa fabrics in the routine.
For items that cannot withstand high heat, seal them in a plastic bag for 48 hours; the lack of oxygen and humidity will cause flea stages to die.

Inspect fabrics before washing. Remove visible debris, such as hair and dirt, with a vacuum or lint roller to improve cleaning efficiency. After laundering, store clean textiles in sealed containers to prevent re‑contamination from untreated areas.

Combining high‑temperature washing with consistent frequency disrupts the flea life cycle, removes existing populations, and minimizes the likelihood that new fleas will establish a foothold in household textiles.

Steam Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

Fleas infiltrate homes by hitching rides on pets, wildlife, or clothing, then seek warm, humid environments where they can reproduce. Carpets and upholstered furniture provide ideal refuges, protecting eggs and larvae from removal and offering a stable microclimate for development.

Steam cleaning targets these habitats by delivering temperatures above 120 °C, which destroy all life stages of the parasite. The process also extracts embedded organic debris that serves as food for emerging fleas, reducing the likelihood of re‑infestation. Unlike chemical sprays, steam leaves no residue and penetrates deep fibers, reaching cracks and seams where insects hide.

Practical application:

Prepare equipment with a temperature gauge; verify output exceeds 120 °C.
Pre‑vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove loose debris.
Apply steam in slow, overlapping passes, allowing saturated areas to remain wet for several minutes.
Repeat treatment after one week to eliminate any newly hatched fleas.
Follow with a thorough vacuum to collect dead insects and residual moisture.

Consistent steam treatment, combined with regular pet hygiene and environmental control, eliminates flea populations and prevents recurrence.

Using Flea Control Products

Fleas enter homes primarily through animals that spend time outdoors, such as dogs, cats, rodents, or wildlife that briefly contact the interior. Eggs, larvae, and pupae can be carried on fur, clothing, or in the soil attached to footwear, allowing the life cycle to continue inside the dwelling.

Effective elimination relies on targeted chemical and physical interventions. Products fall into three categories:

Adulticides – sprays, foggers, or powders that kill roaming fleas on carpets, bedding, and furniture. Apply according to label directions, ensuring thorough coverage of cracks and crevices.
Insect growth regulators (IGRs) – compounds such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen that interrupt development from egg to adult. Use in conjunction with adulticides to prevent reinfestation.
Environmental treatments – diatomaceous earth, boric acid, or steam cleaning to desiccate larvae and pupae in carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding.

Implementation steps:

Treat all pets with a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication to remove the primary host.
Vacuum every room, discarding the bag or cleaning the canister to remove eggs and larvae.
Apply an adulticide to all floor surfaces, allowing the product to dry before re‑entering the area.
Distribute an IGR product throughout the home, focusing on hidden spots such as under furniture and along baseboards.
Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target newly emerged adults, then maintain a monthly preventive schedule for pets and the environment.

Consistent use of these products, combined with regular cleaning, stops the flea life cycle and prevents recurrence.

Preventing Future Infestations

Regular Pet Treatment

Fleas reach indoor environments mainly through animals that have already been exposed outdoors. An untreated dog or cat can carry adult fleas, eggs, and larvae, depositing them on carpets, furniture, and bedding as soon as they enter a home.

Consistent parasite control on pets breaks the flea life cycle and prevents a household infestation. Effective measures include:

Topical spot‑on formulations applied monthly to the animal’s skin; they spread across the coat and kill emerging fleas.
Oral medications administered on a regular schedule; they circulate in the bloodstream and eliminate fleas that bite the host.
Collars that release active ingredients for up to eight weeks; they provide continuous protection without daily handling.

Implementation guidelines:

Begin treatment before the first signs of fleas appear, ideally in early spring when outdoor activity increases.
Follow the product’s dosing interval precisely; missing a dose creates a window for reproduction.
Record each administration date and monitor the pet for adverse reactions, adjusting the regimen if necessary.

Pet treatment must be paired with environmental hygiene. Vacuum carpets and upholstery daily, discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately, and wash pet bedding in hot water weekly. These steps remove residual eggs and larvae, reinforcing the protective effect of regular pet medication and keeping the residence free of fleas.

Yard Maintenance

Fleas often migrate from outdoor environments to indoor spaces in search of hosts, warmth, and shelter. A well‑kept yard reduces the likelihood of infestation by eliminating habitats where fleas develop and by interrupting their life cycle before they reach the home.

Key yard‑maintenance actions:

Trim grass and vegetation to a height of no more than 2‑3 inches; short grass limits humidity and reduces flea breeding sites.
Remove leaf litter, mulch, and organic debris that retain moisture and provide shelter for flea larvae.
Keep compost piles covered and turn them regularly to discourage flea development.
Treat perimeter soil with an appropriate insecticide or natural repellent, following label directions and safety guidelines.
Maintain a regular schedule of pet grooming and flea‑preventive treatments; clean pet bedding and outdoor shelters frequently.
Install physical barriers such as fine‑mesh screens around dog houses, chicken coops, or other animal enclosures to prevent flea ingress.

Implementing these practices creates an environment hostile to flea reproduction, thereby lowering the probability that adult fleas will enter the residence. Continuous monitoring of the yard and prompt remediation of any emerging pest signs sustain long‑term protection.

Sealing Entry Points

Fleas infiltrate homes through tiny openings that provide direct paths from outdoor environments to interior spaces. Common routes include gaps around doors and windows, cracks in foundations, unsealed utility penetrations, and pet‑entry flaps. Because adult fleas can jump several inches, even minute fissures become viable entryways.

Effective exclusion begins with a systematic inspection. Identify all potential passages, then apply appropriate sealing techniques:

Apply silicone or acrylic caulk to cracks in walls, baseboards, and around plumbing fixtures.
Install weather‑stripping on door frames and movable windows to eliminate gaps when closed.
Fit door sweeps on exterior doors to block the space beneath the threshold.
Replace damaged or missing window screens; reinforce existing screens with fine mesh if necessary.
Seal gaps around vent covers, chimney flues, and exhaust fans using metal mesh or foam inserts.
Repair foundation fissures with hydraulic cement or expandable foam, ensuring a durable, water‑tight seal.

Regular maintenance reinforces the barrier. Re‑check sealed areas after seasonal temperature changes, and address new wear promptly. By eliminating ingress points, the likelihood of flea colonisation diminishes dramatically, supporting broader eradication efforts within the residence.

Monitoring for Flea Activity

Monitoring flea activity is essential for early detection and effective control. Fleas leave distinct traces that indicate their presence: frequent scratching by pets, small dark specks (flea dirt) on bedding, and occasional live insects on carpets or furniture. Visual inspection should focus on pet bedding, cracks in flooring, and areas where pets rest.

Key monitoring tools include:

Flea traps containing light and heat sources that attract adult insects; check traps daily and replace the attractant weekly.
Sticky pads placed near pet sleeping zones; replace when covered with debris.
Microscopic examination of pet fur samples to identify flea eggs or larvae; conduct monthly for high‑risk households.

Routine checks should occur at least once a week during warm months and biweekly when temperatures drop. Document findings in a simple log, noting date, location, and type of evidence (e.g., “5 flea dirt particles on dog’s blanket”). Consistent records enable pattern recognition and timely escalation to chemical or environmental treatments.

When monitoring indicates increasing activity, immediate steps include thorough vacuuming of all carpeted areas, washing pet bedding at high temperatures, and applying an appropriate insect growth regulator to interrupt the life cycle. Continuous observation combined with prompt remediation prevents infestation from becoming entrenched.