How can I permanently eliminate fleas in an apartment using folk remedies on the floor at home? - briefly
Apply a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth to all floor surfaces, let it sit for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly; repeat weekly for a month while maintaining low humidity. Complement this with a daily spray of diluted white‑vinegar or peppermint‑oil solution and regular sweeping with coarse salt to disrupt the flea life cycle.
How can I permanently eliminate fleas in an apartment using folk remedies on the floor at home? - in detail
Flea infestation can be eradicated on household flooring by applying time‑tested, non‑chemical methods and maintaining a strict cleaning regimen. The process consists of three phases: preparation, treatment, and prevention.
Preparation
- Remove all loose items (rugs, mats, toys) from the floor.
- Vacuum every surface, including baseboards and cracks, using a high‑efficiency filter. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister in an outdoor trash bin.
- Sweep the floor thoroughly to eliminate adult fleas and larvae that may be hidden in dust.
Treatment
- Diatomaceous earth (food grade) – Sprinkle a thin layer (1‑2 mm) across the entire floor. Leave for 24 hours, then sweep and vacuum. The abrasive particles dehydrate the exoskeleton of fleas at all life stages.
- Borax solution – Dissolve ½ cup of borax in 2 L of warm water. Mop the floor with the solution, ensuring even coverage. Allow to air‑dry; the alkaline environment disrupts flea development.
- Vinegar and salt – Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with ¼ cup of table salt in 1 L of water. Apply with a spray bottle or mop, focusing on seams and joints where eggs are deposited. Salt desiccates larvae, while vinegar neutralizes odor cues that attract adult fleas.
- Herbal steam – Boil a pot of water with a handful of dried rosemary, lavender, and eucalyptus leaves. Pour the infused steam over the floor (use a large pot or portable steamer). The volatile oils act as repellents and interfere with flea respiration.
Repeat the chosen treatment every three days for two weeks to break the flea life cycle, which can extend up to three weeks.
Prevention
- Vacuum daily for the first month, then twice weekly.
- Wash all removable floor coverings in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Keep humidity below 50 % by using a dehumidifier; low moisture hinders egg hatching.
- Apply a thin dusting of diatomaceous earth quarterly to maintain a hostile environment for any stray fleas.
By following the outlined steps, the floor becomes inhospitable to fleas, eliminating the current infestation and preventing re‑colonization.