How can I eradicate fleas in the house? - briefly
Apply a flea spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator to all rooms, then wash bedding, carpets, and upholstery in hot water and vacuum thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag. Repeat the treatment in two weeks to break the flea life cycle.
How can I eradicate fleas in the house? - in detail
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments and hide in carpets, upholstery, bedding, and pet‑accessories. Eradicating them requires a systematic approach that targets every stage of their life cycle.
Start by treating the pets. Use a veterinarian‑approved adulticide spot‑on product or oral medication that kills existing fleas and prevents new eggs from hatching. Follow the dosing schedule precisely; repeat treatments as directed to cover the flea life cycle (about three weeks).
Next, eliminate eggs, larvae, and pupae in the home:
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and furniture cushions thoroughly. Move furniture to reach hidden corners. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Steam‑clean carpets and upholstery. Temperatures above 120 °F kill larvae and pupae that survive vacuuming.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or fogger labeled for indoor use. IGRs prevent immature fleas from developing into adults, interrupting the population surge.
- Treat baseboards, cracks, and under‑furniture crevices with a residual adulticide spray. Choose a product with a 4‑6‑week residual effect for continuous protection.
Consider supplemental natural methods if chemical use is restricted:
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) on carpets and leave for 24 hours before vacuuming. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeletons of larvae and adults.
- Place saturated salt or boric‑acid traps in dark corners; both attract and desiccate fleas.
Maintain a flea‑free environment:
- Keep humidity below 50 % using a dehumidifier; low humidity reduces egg viability.
- Trim pet hair regularly and bathe pets weekly with a flea‑comb to detect early reinfestations.
- Seal cracks and gaps in flooring and walls to eliminate refuge areas for pupae.
Monitor progress by inspecting pets and bedding daily for the first two weeks. If adult fleas reappear, repeat the adulticide treatment and reassess cleaning thoroughness. Consistent application of these steps eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.