How do you kill ticks in the house? - briefly
Vacuum all floors, carpets, and upholstery, then immediately discard the bag or clean the canister; wash bedding and clothing in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Apply a registered acaricide spray or fogger according to label directions to treat remaining infestations.
How do you kill ticks in the house? - in detail
Ticks that have entered a residence require immediate and thorough eradication to prevent bites and disease transmission. Begin by locating all potential hideouts: carpet seams, pet bedding, under furniture, and cracks in flooring. Use a flashlight to inspect dark corners and crevices where the parasites prefer to linger.
Physical removal
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface for at least five minutes. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or container in a plastic bag and discard it in an outdoor trash bin.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric at a minimum temperature of 130 °F (54 °C) for 30 minutes. Dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Steam‑clean floors and upholstery; steam at 212 °F (100 °C) kills ticks on contact.
- Remove and clean pet crates, carriers, and toys with hot, soapy water, then dry thoroughly.
Chemical control
- Apply a residual acaricide labeled for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Focus on baseboards, under furniture, and entry points.
- For cracks and crevices, use a liquid concentrate mixed with water and spray with a fine mist, ensuring full coverage.
- After treatment, keep the area well‑ventilated for at least two hours to reduce inhalation risk.
Natural alternatives
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) lightly over carpets and pet areas; leave for 24 hours before vacuuming. The abrasive particles desiccate ticks without chemicals.
- Place cotton balls soaked in 70 % isopropyl alcohol in hidden corners; replace every 48 hours. Alcohol evaporates, creating an inhospitable environment.
Preventive measures
- Maintain low humidity (below 50 %) using dehumidifiers, as ticks thrive in moist conditions.
- Seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and windows with caulk to block entry.
- Trim vegetation and remove leaf litter around the home’s perimeter; keep grass at least six inches short.
- Conduct monthly inspections of pets, especially after outdoor activities, and use veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives.
By combining meticulous cleaning, targeted chemical or natural treatments, and ongoing preventive actions, indoor tick populations can be eliminated and future infestations prevented.