How can I quickly and independently get rid of fleas in an apartment using folk remedies at home? - briefly
Vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, then wash all linens and pet bedding in hot water; apply diatomaceous earth or a mixture of boiled water, white vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap to floors, baseboards, and hidden crevices, letting it sit 24 hours before vacuuming again. Sprinkle salt or baking soda in gaps and repeat the process daily until fleas disappear.
How can I quickly and independently get rid of fleas in an apartment using folk remedies at home? - in detail
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments and multiply quickly, so an immediate, self‑directed response is essential. Begin by eliminating all sources of organic debris where larvae can develop. Vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstered seat, and floor crevice for at least ten minutes, then discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash container. Follow the vacuuming with a thorough wash of all removable fabrics—bed linens, curtains, pet bedding—using the hottest water the fabric tolerates and a strong detergent.
Apply a fine layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth to carpets, cracks, and under furniture. Leave it for 24–48 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeletons of adult fleas and prevent egg hatching. In areas where dusting is impractical, sprinkle kitchen salt or baking soda, allow it to sit for several hours, then sweep and vacuum; both substances desiccate eggs and larvae.
Prepare a natural spray by mixing one part white vinegar with three parts water and adding a few drops of citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oil. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle and mist floors, baseboards, and pet sleeping spots. The acidic environment repels adult fleas, while the essential oils act as deterrents.
For persistent infestations, create a boiling herbal infusion using dried rosemary, mint, and chamomile. Let the herbs steep for fifteen minutes, strain, and pour the cooled liquid into a spray bottle. Apply to carpets and upholstery; the volatile compounds interfere with flea sensory receptors.
If pets are present, bathe them with a mild soap solution containing a teaspoon of baking soda per liter of water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. After bathing, brush the coat with a flea comb, disposing of captured insects into soapy water.
Control ambient conditions to hinder flea development. Reduce indoor humidity below 50 % using a dehumidifier and maintain room temperatures between 60–70 °F (15–21 °C). Low humidity slows egg maturation and larval survival.
Monitor the situation for two weeks. Re‑vacuum daily, repeat the diatomaceous earth application after each cleaning, and re‑spray the vinegar‑essential‑oil solution every 48 hours until no fleas are observed. Once the infestation ceases, maintain a monthly vacuuming routine, occasional diatomaceous earth dusting, and regular pet grooming to prevent recurrence.