How can I get rid of fleas that have infested the house? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑recommended flea medication to all pets, then vacuum carpets, wash bedding in hot water, and treat cracks, baseboards, and pet zones with an EPA‑approved indoor flea spray. Repeat the treatment after one week to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How can I get rid of fleas that have infested the house? - in detail
Eliminating a flea problem from a home requires a coordinated approach that targets adult insects, larvae, eggs, and any animal hosts.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery at least once daily for two weeks; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into an outdoor trash container. Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Treat pets simultaneously. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea control product to each animal, following the label’s dosage and frequency. Comb each pet with a fine‑toothed flea comb, dipping the comb in soapy water to kill captured insects.
Address the environment. Sprinkle a residual insect growth regulator (IGR) powder or spray—such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen—on carpets, cracks, baseboards, and under furniture, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a flea fogger or aerosol only in well‑ventilated spaces and after removing or covering food, dishes, and pet supplies.
Seal entry points. Repair gaps around doors, windows, and utility penetrations to prevent new insects from entering.
Monitor progress. Place sticky traps or flea collars in high‑traffic rooms and inspect them weekly; a declining catch rate indicates the population is collapsing.
If infestation persists after two weeks of diligent treatment, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. They can apply advanced products, such as synthetic pyrethroids or organophosphate sprays, and provide a customized schedule for follow‑up applications.
Maintain prevention. Continue monthly pet treatments, keep flooring clean, and periodically treat the home with a low‑dose IGR to suppress any resurgence.