How can you treat indoor fleas? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, floors, and upholstery, then wash all bedding and fabrics in hot water; follow with an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger applied per label instructions. Simultaneously treat all pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication to prevent reinfestation.
How can you treat indoor fleas? - in detail
Fleas inside a home require a coordinated approach that targets insects, eggs, larvae, and the host animals. Begin with thorough cleaning: vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor seams daily for at least two weeks. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and place it in an outdoor trash container. Wash bedding, pet blankets, and removable furniture covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat to destroy any life stages present.
Apply a household flea spray or fogger that contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. IGRs prevent eggs and larvae from developing into adult fleas, breaking the life cycle. Follow the product label for room coverage, ventilation, and re‑application intervals. For severe infestations, consider a professional pest‑control service that can treat cracks, baseboards, and wall voids with residual insecticides.
Treat all animals that share the indoor environment. Use veterinarian‑recommended flea collars, topical spot‑on treatments, or oral medications that contain adulticides and, when available, IGRs. Ensure each pet receives the correct dosage based on weight and species, and repeat the treatment according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
Control humidity and temperature, as flea eggs and larvae thrive in warm, moist conditions. Maintain indoor humidity below 50 % and keep the home temperature moderate. Repair any water leaks and improve airflow in basements and crawl spaces.
Monitor progress by placing sticky flea traps near pet resting areas and under furniture legs. Replace traps weekly and count captured insects to assess whether numbers are declining. Continue the cleaning and treatment regimen for at least four weeks, then reduce frequency to monthly maintenance to prevent re‑infestation.