Fleas in the house, how to get rid of them, which products to use? - briefly
Use thorough vacuuming, hot‑wash bedding, and a flea spray containing an insect growth regulator (e.g., methoprene) or adulticide (e.g., permethrin). Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved collar or topical medication to prevent re‑infestation.
Fleas in the house, how to get rid of them, which products to use? - in detail
Fleas thrive in carpets, pet bedding, and cracks between floorboards. Their life cycle—egg, larva, pupa, adult—requires consistent treatment to interrupt development and prevent reinfestation.
Begin with a thorough cleaning regimen. Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface daily for two weeks, discarding the bag or emptying the canister outside the home. Follow with a hot‑water wash (minimum 130 °F) of all removable fabrics, including pet blankets, pillowcases, and curtains.
Apply an insecticide that targets all stages of the flea. Products approved for indoor use include:
- Permethrin‑based sprays (e.g., Selesto, Ortho Home Defense). Apply to carpets, under furniture, and baseboards; allow drying before re‑entry.
- Insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen (e.g., Prestop, Nylar). These prevent immature fleas from maturing, reducing future adult populations.
- Foggers (total release aerosols) labeled for flea control. Use only in sealed rooms; follow label instructions regarding ventilation and evacuation time.
- Diatomaceous earth (food‑grade). Spread a thin layer on carpets and pet areas; leave for 48 hours, then vacuum.
Treat pets concurrently to stop adult fleas from re‑infesting the environment. Recommended options are:
- Topical spot‑on treatments containing fipronil or imidacloprid (e.g., Frontline, Advantage).
- Oral tablets with nitenpyram or spinosad (e.g., Capstar, Comfortis). Administer according to veterinarian dosage.
After chemical treatment, maintain environmental control:
- Keep humidity below 50 % to hinder flea development.
- Seal cracks and crevices where larvae may hide.
- Repeat vacuuming and washing cycles weekly for at least one month.
- Perform a follow‑up insecticide application after 7–10 days to eliminate emerging adults.
Monitoring devices, such as flea traps containing light and a sticky surface, help verify the effectiveness of the program. Continue observation for six weeks; if flea activity persists, consult a professional pest‑control service for a targeted, integrated approach.