How can you get rid of fleas and ticks at home? - briefly
Combine thorough vacuuming of carpets and upholstery, wash all pet bedding and linens in hot water, and treat the environment with a pet‑safe insecticide spray or fogger, then repeat the treatment after a week to interrupt the life cycle.
How can you get rid of fleas and ticks at home? - in detail
Eliminating fleas and ticks from a residence requires a systematic approach that targets the insects, their eggs, and the environments where they thrive.
First, treat all animals. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral product to dogs and cats. Use a collar that releases insecticide continuously for several months. Repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule to break the life cycle.
Second, cleanse the bedding and any fabric the pets use. Wash sheets, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in a sealed bag for two weeks to suffocate larvae and eggs.
Third, vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface. Move furniture to reach floor edges and under cushions. After each session, empty the vacuum canister or replace the bag and discard it in a sealed container. This removes adult insects, nymphs, and eggs before they can develop.
Fourth, apply an environmental insecticide. Choose a product labeled for indoor use against fleas and ticks. Treat baseboards, cracks, and crevices where insects hide. Follow label directions for dosage, ventilation, and re‑application intervals, typically every 7–14 days during an active infestation.
Fifth, employ non‑chemical controls. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on carpets and pet areas; the fine powder damages the exoskeleton of insects, causing dehydration. Leave it for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. Use a steam cleaner on upholstery and hard floors; temperatures above 50 °C kill all life stages on contact.
Sixth, manage the exterior. Trim grass and vegetation around the house to reduce humidity and shade, both of which favor tick activity. Place a barrier of wood chips or gravel between the yard and the foundation. Treat the perimeter with a tick‑specific spray, focusing on shaded, moist zones.
Finally, monitor progress. Set sticky traps in corners and under furniture to capture wandering adults. Inspect pets weekly for signs of infestation; re‑treat animals immediately if any are found. Continue the combined regimen for at least eight weeks, the typical duration of a flea life cycle, to ensure complete eradication.