How to clean an apartment of fleas? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor seams, discard the vacuum contents, wash all bedding, curtains, and pet fabrics in hot water, then treat the interior with a licensed flea spray or fogger according to label instructions, and repeat the process after 7‑10 days to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How to clean an apartment of fleas? - in detail
Eliminate a flea infestation by addressing every stage of the life cycle—egg, larva, pupa, adult—and treating all potential habitats.
First, remove all clutter that can shelter immature stages: discard or seal infested bedding, pet accessories, and fabric items in airtight bags for at least two weeks. Wash removable textiles in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat kills eggs and larvae.
Next, vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstery thoroughly. Use a vacuum with strong suction and a brush roll; move slowly to dislodge hidden stages. Immediately empty the canister or bag into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors. Repeat vacuuming after 48 hours and again after one week to capture newly emerged adults.
Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or fogger that contains methoprene or pyriproxyfen to all carpeted areas, cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Follow product instructions for concentration and dwell time. IGRs prevent development of eggs and larvae, breaking the cycle.
Treat pet bedding and the animals themselves simultaneously. Use a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo or topical medication on each pet, and wash pet bedding in hot water. Apply a residual flea spray safe for pets to surrounding areas, ensuring proper ventilation.
For hard surfaces—tiles, hardwood, laminate—scrub with a detergent solution, then rinse and dry. Follow with a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use, focusing on baseboards, under sinks, and behind appliances where larvae may hide.
Seal entry points: close gaps around doors, windows, and utility openings with caulk or weather stripping to reduce re‑infestation from external sources.
Monitor progress with sticky flea traps placed near pet sleeping areas and along walls. Replace traps every 2–3 days; a decline in captured adults indicates effective control.
Maintain a cleaning schedule: vacuum weekly, wash pet bedding weekly, and repeat IGR treatment every 30 days for at least three months. Continuous hygiene and regular treatment prevent resurgence.