Fleas are biting in the apartment: how to get rid of them? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets and upholstery, wash all bedding and pet linens in hot water, and treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication; then apply a residential flea spray or fogger according to the product directions to eradicate remaining insects.
Fleas are biting in the apartment: how to get rid of them? - in detail
Fleas in a living space cause itchy bites, can transmit diseases, and multiply rapidly if untreated.
Visible signs include small dark specks on bedding, pet fur, or carpet, and the presence of flea dirt—tiny black particles that turn reddish when moistened.
Immediate actions:
- Vacuum all floors, upholstery, and pet bedding daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister after each use.
- Wash linens, curtains, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Apply a flea spray or powder to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture; follow the product label for safe indoor use.
Pet treatment is essential because animals serve as the primary host. Use veterinarian‑approved oral or topical flea preventatives, perform regular flea combing, and bathe pets with a flea‑killing shampoo if an outbreak is confirmed.
Environmental control options:
- Insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen, which interrupt flea development stages.
- Diatomaceous earth spread thinly on carpet edges and pet areas; it desiccates adult fleas without chemicals.
- Foggers or aerosol bombs for severe infestations; evacuate the premises, close all food containers, and ventilate thoroughly after treatment.
Preventive measures:
- Maintain a weekly vacuum schedule, focusing on pet zones.
- Keep pets on a consistent flea‑prevention regimen year‑round.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utilities to reduce outdoor flea entry.
- Rotate and clean pet bedding weekly to eliminate eggs and larvae before they hatch.
Following these steps eliminates the current population, interrupts the life cycle, and minimizes the risk of recurrence.