How can I get rid of fleas and bed bugs in a house? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then wash all bedding and fabrics at ≥130 °F and apply an EPA‑approved insecticide spray to infested areas; seal entry points and repeat the treatment after 10–14 days to interrupt the life cycle.
How can I get rid of fleas and bed bugs in a house? - in detail
Eliminating both fleas and bed bugs from a residence requires a systematic approach that addresses infestation sources, treatment methods, and preventive measures.
Identify all infested zones. Inspect bedding, mattresses, furniture seams, carpets, and pet bedding. Use a flashlight to locate live insects, shed skins, or dark spots indicating eggs. Mark contaminated areas for targeted treatment.
Treat the environment.
- Wash all linens, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Apply a registered insecticide spray or powder labeled for both fleas and bed bugs to cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture. Follow label directions for concentration, contact time, and ventilation.
- For severe infestations, use a professional-grade heat‑treatment device that raises room temperature to 120–135 °F for a minimum of 90 minutes, ensuring lethal exposure to all life stages.
Address pet‑related flea reservoirs.
- Bathe animals with a veterinary‑approved flea shampoo.
- Administer a monthly oral or topical flea control product prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Treat pet sleeping areas with a flea‑specific insect growth regulator (IGR) to interrupt the life cycle.
Monitor progress. Re‑inspect all previously marked locations weekly for at least four weeks. Repeat vacuuming and targeted insecticide applications if live insects reappear. Use sticky traps placed near baseboards and furniture legs to detect residual activity.
Implement long‑term prevention.
- Reduce clutter that provides hiding places.
- Seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and flooring.
- Use mattress encasements with a zippered closure rated to contain bed bugs.
- Maintain regular cleaning schedules, including laundering bedding weekly on high heat.
- Schedule periodic professional inspections, especially after travel or acquisition of second‑hand furniture.
Combining thorough cleaning, appropriate chemical or thermal treatments, pet management, and ongoing vigilance eliminates infestations and minimizes the risk of recurrence.