How should flea dust be diluted? - briefly
Mix one tablespoon (≈15 ml) of flea dust into one quart (≈1 L) of warm water, stirring until evenly dispersed, and let the mixture settle for a few minutes before use. Apply the solution within 24 hours for optimal effectiveness.
How should flea dust be diluted? - in detail
Flea powder designed for home use must be mixed with water before application to achieve an effective concentration and to prevent residue buildup. Begin by reading the manufacturer’s label; most products specify a ratio such as one tablespoon of powder per gallon of water. If the label is missing, a common safe starting point is 0.5 g of powder per liter of water.
Prepare a clean bucket or sprayer, add the measured water, then slowly sprinkle the powder while stirring continuously. Stirring ensures the particles disperse evenly and prevents clumping. Allow the solution to sit for 5–10 minutes; this period lets the powder fully hydrate and reach its intended potency.
When the mixture is ready, apply it to the target area using a spray nozzle or a cloth soaked in the solution. Focus on carpets, bedding, and cracks where fleas hide. Do not saturate surfaces; a light, even coating is sufficient. After treatment, keep pets and people away from the area for the duration recommended on the product label, typically 30 minutes to an hour.
For repeat treatments, follow the same dilution steps and wait the interval suggested by the manufacturer, often one week, to break the flea life cycle. Adjust the concentration only if the label explicitly permits a stronger mix for severe infestations; otherwise, maintain the recommended ratio to avoid toxicity.