Fleas have appeared in the house: how to get rid of them using folk remedies? - briefly
Apply diatomaceous earth to carpets, upholstery and pet bedding, then spray a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water on infested areas; additionally, bathe pets with a neem‑oil or rosemary‑based herbal dip and repeat the treatment weekly until fleas disappear.
Fleas have appeared in the house: how to get rid of them using folk remedies? - in detail
Fleas invading a residence demand swift, thorough action because the insects develop rapidly and lay eggs in carpet fibers, bedding, and pet shelters. Interrupting the life cycle prevents a resurgence and protects occupants from bites and possible allergic reactions.
Begin with a systematic cleaning regimen. Vacuum all floor coverings, upholstery, and cracks for at least ten minutes per room; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to eliminate captured insects. Launder pet blankets, pillowcases, and any washable fabrics in water hotter than 60 °C, then dry on high heat. Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using dehumidifiers, as low moisture hinders flea egg hatching.
Apply proven folk treatments according to the following guidelines:
- Diatomaceous earth (food grade): Sprinkle a thin layer on carpets, under furniture, and in pet sleeping areas. Leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The powder’s abrasive particles desiccate adult fleas and larvae.
- Table salt: Disperse coarse salt across rugs and carpet seams; let sit for several days before vacuuming. Salt draws moisture from insects, causing death.
- Borax: Mix equal parts borax and powdered sugar, spread lightly on flooring, and vacuum after 12 hours. Sugar attracts fleas, while borax acts as a lethal agent.
- Essential oil spray: Combine 10 ml of lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint oil with 1 L of water, add a few drops of dish‑soap as an emulsifier, and spray onto pet bedding, carpet edges, and cracks. Reapply every 48 hours.
- Vinegar solution: Mix one part white vinegar with one part water; mist areas where fleas are seen. Vinegar disrupts the insects’ respiratory system.
- Lemon spray: Soak sliced lemons in hot water overnight, strain, add a teaspoon of liquid dish‑soap, and spray onto floors and pet habitats. The citrus scent repels adult fleas.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle over carpets, wait 30 minutes, then vacuum. Baking soda dehydrates eggs and larvae.
- Neem oil: Dilute 5 ml neem oil in 500 ml water, add a few drops of soap, and apply to pet coats and indoor surfaces. Neem interferes with flea development.
- Catnip leaves: Place fresh or dried catnip in pet sleeping zones; the plant’s nepetalactone deters fleas.
Treat the animal companions simultaneously. Bathe pets with a mild soap solution, followed by a rinse of diluted neem oil or a few drops of lavender oil mixed with water. Comb their fur with a fine-toothed flea comb after each bath, discarding collected insects in hot water.
Address outdoor sources that may reinfest the interior. Scatter diatomaceous earth or salt along the perimeter of the house, especially under decks and near pet shelters. Trim grass and remove debris to reduce habitat for adult fleas.
Monitor progress by inspecting pet fur, bedding, and floor surfaces daily. Repeat the chosen folk measures for at least three weeks, covering the full flea life cycle from egg to adult. Persistent hotspots warrant an additional round of treatment before considering professional pest control.