How to destroy fleas in an apartment yourself? - briefly
Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery, then wash bedding, curtains, and pet linens in hot water. Apply a flea‑killing spray or dust (such as diatomaceous earth) to cracks, baseboards, and pet areas, and repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to interrupt the life cycle.
How to destroy fleas in an apartment yourself? - in detail
Eliminating a flea infestation in a residence requires a systematic approach that combines thorough cleaning, targeted treatment, and preventive measures.
Begin with a complete inspection. Identify all areas where fleas and their eggs may reside: carpets, upholstery, bedding, cracks in flooring, pet sleeping spots, and under furniture. Use a fine-toothed flea comb on pets and a flashlight to spot adult insects and dark specks (flea dirt) on fabrics.
Next, remove the source of nourishment. Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting. Launder curtains, cushion covers, and any fabric that can be laundered.
Proceed with intensive vacuuming. Operate a vacuum with a rotating brush on all carpeted surfaces, floor seams, and upholstery. After each session, seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a residual insecticide to the environment. Choose a product labeled for indoor flea control that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Follow label directions precisely: spray along baseboards, under furniture, in cracks, and on carpet edges. Allow the treated area to dry completely before re‑entering.
For households preferring non‑chemical options, employ diatomaceous earth (food grade) or silica aerogel. Lightly dust these powders on carpets, pet areas, and cracks; they desiccate fleas by absorbing lipids from the exoskeleton. Reapply after cleaning or when the powder becomes damp.
Treat pets concurrently. Use a veterinarian‑approved flea collar, topical spot‑on treatment, or oral medication that contains both an adulticide and an IGR. Administer the product according to the prescribed schedule to prevent re‑infestation from surviving eggs or larvae.
Maintain a regular cleaning regimen. Vacuum weekly, wash pet bedding weekly, and mop hard floors with a mild detergent. Keep humidity below 50 % by using a dehumidifier or proper ventilation, as fleas thrive in moist environments.
Monitor progress. After two weeks, repeat the inspection process. If adult fleas persist, perform a second round of environmental insecticide application and continue vacuuming.
Finally, establish long‑term prevention. Keep pets on a consistent flea‑control program, limit outdoor access to flea‑prone areas, and inspect new pets before introducing them to the home. By integrating thorough cleaning, targeted chemical or physical treatment, and ongoing preventive actions, a flea population can be eradicated without professional intervention.