How should the floor be washed for fleas? - briefly
Use hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) with a flea‑killing detergent, scrub the whole floor thoroughly, then rinse. Dry the surface completely to eliminate any remaining fleas.
How should the floor be washed for fleas? - in detail
Effective floor sanitation to eliminate fleas requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
Begin with thorough vacuuming. Use a high‑efficiency vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. Move slowly across the surface, overlapping each pass to capture adult fleas, larvae, and eggs. After vacuuming, immediately seal the bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors to prevent re‑infestation.
Follow with steam cleaning. A steam mop that reaches at least 212 °F (100 °C) kills all life stages on contact. Apply steam in a slow, steady motion, ensuring the entire area is saturated. Allow the floor to remain wet for the manufacturer‑recommended dwell time, typically 5–10 minutes, before drying.
If steam is unavailable, use a detergent solution containing an insecticide approved for indoor use (e.g., a product with permethrin, pyrethrin, or a synthetic flea spray). Dilute according to label instructions, mop the floor, and keep the surface moist for the specified contact period, usually 10 minutes. Rinse with clean water if the product requires it, then allow the floor to dry completely.
Complete the process with a final vacuum to remove any residual debris. Repeat the entire cleaning cycle every 48 hours for two weeks, then weekly for an additional month to break the flea life cycle.
Additional precautions:
- Remove or wash rugs, mats, and removable floor coverings separately using hot water (≥130 °F) and a dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Keep indoor humidity below 50 % to discourage egg development.
- Treat pet bedding and surrounding areas with the same method to avoid re‑contamination.
- Ensure proper ventilation during chemical application to protect occupants.