How can you get rid of fleas using baking soda? - briefly
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, pet bedding, and upholstery, let it sit for several hours to dehydrate fleas, then vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder and dead insects. Repeat the process weekly until the infestation disappears.
How can you get rid of fleas using baking soda? - in detail
Baking soda works as a desiccant, drawing moisture from flea eggs, larvae, and adult insects, which leads to their death. To employ this method effectively, follow a systematic approach:
- Preparation of the environment: Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstery, and pet bedding thoroughly. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation.
- Application of baking soda: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of plain baking soda over the treated surfaces. Aim for a coverage of approximately one tablespoon per square foot. Avoid clumping, which can reduce contact with the insects.
- Absorption period: Leave the powder in place for 24–48 hours. During this time, the substance absorbs humidity from the flea life stages, causing dehydration.
- Secondary treatment: After the absorption period, vacuum again, ensuring the suction is strong enough to lift the powder and dead insects. Clean the vacuum filter afterward.
- Repeat cycle: Conduct the entire process at least three times over a two‑week span. Flea eggs may hatch after the first treatment, and subsequent applications target the newly emerged larvae.
Additional considerations:
- Pet safety: Baking soda is non‑toxic to animals, but ensure pets are not ingesting large amounts. Keep the powder away from food dishes and wash paws after contact.
- Humidity control: Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using a dehumidifier or proper ventilation. Lower moisture levels enhance the desiccating effect of the powder.
- Complementary measures: Combine the powder treatment with regular grooming, flea combing, and, if necessary, a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea control product to address adult fleas that may evade the powder.
By adhering to this protocol, the flea population can be significantly reduced without resorting to chemical insecticides.