How should upholstered furniture be treated for fleas? - briefly
Vacuum the entire surface, then apply a flea‑specific insecticide spray or fogger approved for indoor use, and follow with a hot‑water steam cleaning of the fabric. Wash all removable covers in water above 130 °F and repeat the treatment after seven days to eliminate any surviving eggs.
How should upholstered furniture be treated for fleas? - in detail
Treating fabric‑covered furniture for a flea infestation requires a systematic approach that eliminates adult insects, eggs, and larvae while preventing re‑infestation.
Begin by removing all removable items—cushions, throws, and slipcovers. Wash them in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. If laundering is not possible, place the textiles in a sealed bag and freeze at ‑20 °C (‑4 °F) for 48 hours to kill all life stages.
Next, vacuum the entire surface of the upholstery, including seams, crevices, and under cushions. Use a brush‑roll attachment to dislodge hidden eggs. After vacuuming, immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container and dispose of it outside the home.
Apply an insecticide formulated for indoor use on fabrics. Choose a product labeled for fleas and safe on upholstery, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray or a diatomaceous‑earth powder. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions, spraying evenly across the furniture and allowing the product to penetrate seams. For powders, dust lightly and brush the excess off after the recommended contact time.
Allow the treated furniture to dry completely, typically 2–4 hours, before re‑covering it. Replace cushions and covers only after they have been cleaned or treated. Maintain a regular cleaning schedule: vacuum weekly and repeat insecticide application every 7–10 days for three weeks to break the flea life cycle.
Finally, address the surrounding environment. Treat pet bedding, carpets, and any nearby fabric surfaces using the same methods, and ensure pets receive appropriate flea control to avoid re‑introduction. Continuous monitoring and prompt removal of any new fleas will sustain a flea‑free upholstered area.