How can I drive fleas out of the house? - briefly
Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery, then wash bedding and pet blankets in hot water; follow with a flea‑specific insecticide spray or fogger applied according to label directions. Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea preventative and repeat cleaning and treatment weekly to prevent recurrence.
How can I drive fleas out of the house? - in detail
Eliminating a flea infestation requires a coordinated approach that targets adult insects, developing larvae, and eggs throughout the living environment.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstered furniture at least once daily for two weeks; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash container. Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Mop hard floors with a detergent solution, then follow with a flea‑specific spray or a diluted solution of soapy water.
Treat pets, the primary hosts, before addressing the home. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication that kills adult fleas and prevents new eggs from hatching. Groom animals with a fine‑toothed flea comb, disposing of captured insects into soapy water.
Apply an environmental insecticide. Use a product labeled for indoor use that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, imidacloprid) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Follow label directions precisely: treat baseboards, cracks, under furniture, and pet sleeping areas. Allow the recommended dwell time before re‑entering treated rooms.
Address hidden breeding sites. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or a granular IGR in cracks, crevices, and beneath pet bedding; these substances dehydrate larvae and inhibit development. After a few days, vacuum the treated areas to remove dead insects and residual product.
Maintain a preventive routine. Repeat vacuuming and washing of linens weekly for the next month. Reapply IGR treatment monthly according to product guidelines. Keep pets on a consistent flea control regimen throughout the year.
If infestation persists after several weeks, consult a professional pest‑control operator. They can assess the severity, apply stronger residual treatments, and offer targeted recommendations for stubborn locations.
By integrating rigorous cleaning, pet treatment, chemical control, and ongoing prevention, a household can be cleared of fleas and remain inhospitable to future infestations.