Fleas are crawling from the basement into the apartment, what should be done? - briefly
Seal all cracks and gaps between the basement and the living space, then apply a suitable flea insecticide or fogger in both areas and finish with thorough vacuuming and laundering of bedding and fabrics.
Fleas are crawling from the basement into the apartment, what should be done? - in detail
Fleas moving upward from a lower level present a health risk and can quickly infest a dwelling. Immediate action reduces population growth and prevents bites.
- Identify the source. Inspect the basement for pet bedding, rodent droppings, and moisture that attract fleas. Look for adult insects on walls, floor seams, and in cracks.
- Eliminate breeding sites. Remove or wash any fabric that may harbor eggs, such as blankets, rugs, and pet bedding. Dispose of infested items in sealed bags.
- Treat the environment. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use, focusing on baseboards, wall joints, and floor‑to‑ceiling transitions. Use a fogger only if the product specifies safe indoor application.
- Vacuum thoroughly. Run a high‑efficiency vacuum over carpets, upholstery, and crevices for at least 10 minutes. Immediately empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it.
- Wash all washable fabrics at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher. Use a detergent that contains an insect‑killing agent when possible.
- Seal entry points. Caulk gaps around pipes, vents, and door frames to block further migration.
- Treat pets. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product to any animals that may have been exposed, following the label instructions precisely.
- Monitor progress. Place sticky traps or flea combs in suspect areas for a week. If counts remain high, repeat chemical treatment or consider a professional exterminator.
A systematic approach—source elimination, chemical control, thorough cleaning, and preventative sealing—effectively curtails the upward movement of fleas and safeguards the living space.