Fleas in the apartment: how to combat them? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, rugs, and cracks, then wash all linens and upholstery at ≥60 °C before applying an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray. Simultaneously treat all pets with a veterinarian‑approved product and, if the infestation persists, engage professional pest control.
Fleas in the apartment: how to combat them? - in detail
Fleas establish a rapid indoor population when conditions provide warmth, humidity, and a host. Adult insects lay eggs on pets, bedding, and carpet fibers; eggs hatch within two to five days, releasing larvae that feed on organic debris. Visible signs include small, dark specks on fabric, itchy bites on skin, and sudden increase in pet scratching.
Inspection begins with a systematic sweep of all rooms. Use a fine-toothed comb on pet fur, examining the base of the tail and under the neck. Place a white sheet on the floor and gently shake carpets; fallen fleas appear as moving specks. Check cracks, baseboards, and under furniture for dark specks resembling pepper.
Immediate actions focus on mechanical removal. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor seams thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister after each session. Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Apply a steam cleaner to hard floors and upholstered surfaces; temperatures above 50 °C kill all life stages.
Chemical interventions complement mechanical methods. Select an insecticide labeled for indoor flea control, preferably a product containing a combination of adulticide (e.g., pyrethrin) and larvicide (e.g., methoprene). Apply according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring adequate ventilation. For severe infestations, consider a fogger or aerosol “total release” spray, but restrict occupancy and remove food items during treatment.
Biological options provide non‑chemical alternatives. Introduce entomopathogenic nematodes (e.g., Steinernema spp.) to moist areas beneath carpets; these parasites infect and kill larval stages. Distribute food‑grade diatomaceous earth thinly over carpets and leave for 48 hours before vacuuming; the abrasive particles desiccate adult fleas.
Preventive measures sustain a flea‑free environment. Maintain regular veterinary prophylaxis for pets, using topical or oral products that interrupt the life cycle. Schedule weekly vacuuming and monthly laundering of pet bedding. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations to reduce ingress of stray insects. Monitor indoor humidity, keeping levels below 60 % to hinder larval development.