How can fleas be driven out of an apartment? - briefly
Thoroughly clean and treat the premises with an appropriate insecticide, wash all bedding, and vacuum carpets and upholstery daily; then seal cracks, employ flea traps, and, if the «flea infestation» persists, engage professional pest control.
How can fleas be driven out of an apartment? - in detail
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments where they can access blood meals from humans or pets. Eradicating them from a residence requires a systematic approach that targets adult insects, immature stages, and the habitats they occupy.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Vacuum all carpeted areas, floor seams, and upholstered furniture at least twice daily for two weeks. Immediately empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the dwelling. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable covers in water heated to at least 60 °C; dry them on the highest heat setting available.
Treat the environment with appropriate insecticides. Choose a product labeled for flea control that contains an adulticide (such as permethrin, bifenthrin, or imidacloprid) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) like methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Apply the adulticide to carpets, rugs, and cracks in flooring; allow the surface to remain moist for the recommended contact time. Follow with the IGR to prevent development of eggs and larvae. Repeat applications according to the manufacturer’s schedule, typically every 7–14 days, until no new fleas are observed.
Address the animal hosts. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to each pet, selecting a formulation that offers both rapid adult kill and long‑term protection (e.g., monthly spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar). Bathe pets with a flea‑combating shampoo, then comb thoroughly with a fine‑toothed flea comb, disposing of captured insects into soapy water.
Target hidden breeding sites. Sprinkle a fine layer of diatomaceous earth on carpet edges, under furniture, and in pet sleeping areas; leave for 48 hours before vacuuming. Use a steam cleaner on upholstery and flooring, as temperatures above 50 °C destroy eggs and larvae.
Maintain environmental conditions unfavorable to fleas. Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using dehumidifiers or ventilation; lower ambient temperature when feasible, as cooler environments slow flea development.
Monitor progress. Place sticky flea traps near baseboards and under furniture; replace them weekly. Continue vacuuming and cleaning for at least one month after the last live flea is seen to ensure complete eradication.
If infestation persists despite these measures, consult a professional pest‑control service equipped to apply residual treatments and assess structural factors that may harbor fleas.