How should kerosene be mixed to fight fleas? - briefly
Combine one part kerosene with nine parts water and a few drops of liquid soap, then spray the solution onto infested surfaces while keeping the area well‑ventilated and away from ignition sources. Reapply after 24 hours if fleas persist.
How should kerosene be mixed to fight fleas? - in detail
Kerosene can be used as an insecticidal agent against fleas when mixed correctly and applied safely. The mixture must achieve a concentration that kills fleas without creating a fire hazard or causing skin irritation.
Preparation of the solution
- Use 100 ml of clean, low‑sulfur kerosene as the base solvent.
- Add 10 ml of a mild surfactant such as liquid dish soap to emulsify the oil and improve spreadability.
- Incorporate 5 ml of an approved insecticidal additive, for example pyrethrin concentrate, to provide rapid knock‑down of adult fleas.
- Stir the components in a glass or stainless‑steel container for at least one minute until a uniform emulsion forms.
Application guidelines
- Test the blend on a small, inconspicuous area of fabric or carpet to confirm no discoloration occurs.
- Apply the emulsion with a spray bottle, maintaining a fine mist that lightly coats the target surface.
- Target areas include pet bedding, upholstery seams, cracks in flooring, and under furniture legs.
- Allow the treated zone to remain damp for 15–20 minutes; the kerosene will penetrate the flea exoskeleton, while the surfactant ensures coverage.
- Ventilate the room thoroughly after treatment, opening windows and running fans for at least 30 minutes.
Safety and handling
- Perform mixing outdoors or in a well‑ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors.
- Wear chemical‑resistant gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for organic vapors.
- Keep the mixture away from open flames, sparks, and hot surfaces; kerosene is highly flammable.
- Store any unused solution in a sealed, fire‑proof container labeled with the contents and date of preparation.
- Dispose of empty containers according to local hazardous‑waste regulations; never pour residual mixture down drains.
Precautions for pets and humans
- Ensure pets are removed from the treatment zone until the surface is completely dry.
- Do not apply the mixture directly onto animal skin or fur; it is intended for environmental control only.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling the solution, even when gloves are used.
Post‑treatment monitoring
- Re‑inspect treated areas after 24 hours; repeat application once if flea activity persists, but do not exceed two total treatments within a week.
- Combine the chemical approach with mechanical methods such as vacuuming and washing bedding at 60 °C to maximize eradication.
Following these steps yields an effective kerosene‑based emulsion that targets fleas while minimizing risks to occupants and property.