How can I eliminate fleas from a mattress? - briefly
Strip the bedding, wash all linens in hot water, vacuum the mattress thoroughly, then apply an EPA‑approved flea spray or powder and cover the mattress with a sealed encasement. Repeat the treatment weekly for two weeks to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How can I eliminate fleas from a mattress? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a mattress requires a systematic approach that targets both adult insects and their eggs. Begin by removing all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets and mattress protectors. Wash each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting to kill any remaining parasites.
Next, treat the mattress itself. Follow these steps:
- Vacuum thoroughly. Use a hose attachment to suction the entire surface, seams, and edges. Empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outside the home.
- Apply a fine powder. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or an insecticidal dust labeled for indoor use across the mattress. Allow it to sit for 24 hours; the abrasive particles damage flea exoskeletons and dehydrate eggs.
- Steam clean. Run a steam cleaner over the mattress at a temperature above 200 °F (93 °C). The combination of heat and moisture kills fleas at all life stages.
- Treat gaps. If the mattress sits on a box spring or a wooden frame, apply the same powder and vacuum the crevices. Consider using a flea spray approved for indoor furniture, following label directions precisely.
After treatment, encase the mattress in a zippered, flea‑proof cover. Keep the cover sealed for at least two weeks to prevent re‑infestation while any surviving fleas die.
For severe infestations, repeat the vacuum‑powder‑steam cycle twice more, spaced 48 hours apart. If fleas persist, contact a licensed pest‑control professional who can apply residual insecticides safely to the bedroom environment.
Prevent future problems by:
- Washing bedding weekly in hot water.
- Vacuuming the bedroom floor and furniture regularly.
- Keeping pets treated with veterinarian‑approved flea preventatives.
- Inspecting new second‑hand furniture before introducing it to the sleeping area.
Following these measures eliminates fleas from a mattress and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.