How can you clean furniture of fleas? - briefly
Vacuum the furniture meticulously, then apply a flea‑kill spray or a diluted dish‑soap solution, allowing it to penetrate seams and cushions. Wash any removable covers in hot water and dry on high heat to eradicate remaining insects and eggs.
How can you clean furniture of fleas? - in detail
Fleas embed themselves in upholstery, seams, and cracks, making eradication a multi‑stage process. Begin by isolating the affected piece to prevent insects from migrating to other areas. Vacuum every surface thoroughly, using a brush attachment to dislodge eggs and larvae from fabric fibers and crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and place it in an outdoor trash bin.
After vacuuming, apply a heat treatment. Portable steam cleaners set to at least 120 °C (250 °F) penetrate deep into cushions and padding, killing all life stages. Move the steam nozzle slowly, ensuring each section receives sufficient exposure for 10–15 seconds. For items that cannot withstand high heat, use a cold‑temperature freeze method: wrap the furniture in a heavy-duty plastic bag and place it in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 48 hours.
Next, treat the fabric with an insecticide approved for indoor use. Choose a product containing either permethrin, pyrethrin, or a diatomaceous earth spray. Follow label instructions precisely: apply a thin, even mist to all surfaces, paying special attention to seams, tufted areas, and under cushions. Allow the treated area to dry completely before reuse, typically 2–4 hours.
Finally, implement environmental controls to inhibit re‑infestation. Wash removable covers in hot water (≥60 °C / 140 °F) and dry on high heat. Reduce humidity in the room to below 50 % using a dehumidifier, as fleas thrive in moist conditions. Repeat the vacuum‑steam‑insecticide cycle weekly for three weeks to break the flea life cycle and ensure complete eradication.