How long do fleas live on clothing? - briefly
Fleas can remain viable on fabric for roughly two to three days without a blood meal, extending to about a week under warm, humid conditions. Their survival time drops sharply once the garment is washed or exposed to temperatures above 95 °F (35 °C).
How long do fleas live on clothing? - in detail
Fleas can remain viable on textiles for a limited period, typically ranging from several days up to two weeks. The exact duration depends on temperature, humidity, and the species involved.
Adult fleas require a blood meal to reproduce. When detached from a host, they enter a survival mode, relying on stored energy reserves. At ambient temperatures between 20 °C and 25 °C (68 °F–77 °F) with relative humidity above 50 %, an adult may survive 48–72 hours without feeding. Cooler conditions (10 °C–15 °C) extend survival to 5–7 days, while warm, dry environments reduce it to under 24 hours.
Flea eggs and larvae are more sensitive to environmental factors. Eggs deposited on clothing hatch within 2–5 days if moisture is present. Larvae feed on organic debris, including adult flea feces, and can persist for 2–3 weeks before pupating, provided the fabric remains humid. In dry settings, larval development stalls, and mortality rises sharply.
Key factors influencing longevity on garments:
- Temperature: Higher heat accelerates metabolism, shortening survival; moderate warmth prolongs it.
- Humidity: Moisture supports egg hatching and larval growth; low humidity leads to rapid desiccation.
- Fabric type: Natural fibers (cotton, wool) retain moisture better than synthetics, offering a more favorable microhabitat.
- Exposure to sunlight: Ultraviolet radiation damages flea exoskeletons, decreasing survivability.
If clothing is left untouched for more than a week under typical indoor conditions, the likelihood of viable adult fleas diminishes dramatically. However, dormant pupae can remain in the fabric’s folds for months, reactivating when conditions improve.
Preventive actions include washing garments in hot water (≥60 °C or 140 °F) for at least 10 minutes, tumble drying on high heat, and storing clean clothing in sealed containers. Regular vacuuming of closets removes detached fleas, eggs, and larvae, reducing the risk of re‑infestation.