How to destroy fleas in the house? - briefly
Eliminate fleas by thoroughly vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and floor seams, disposing of the vacuum contents, and applying a certified insecticide spray or powder to all treated surfaces. Wash bedding in hot water and use a monthly preventive treatment to interrupt the life cycle.
How to destroy fleas in the house? - in detail
Eliminate household fleas by attacking every stage of their life cycle. Begin with thorough cleaning, then apply targeted treatments, and finish with preventive measures.
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily for at least a week. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash container to prevent surviving eggs from re‑infesting.
- Wash bedding, pet blankets, and removable fabrics in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C). Dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Treat pet fur with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo or spot‑on product. Repeat according to the product label to break the adult flea breeding cycle.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or fogger to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. IGRs inhibit development of eggs and larvae, reducing future populations.
- Use a residual adulticide spray on carpets, pet areas, and cracks where fleas hide. Follow safety instructions, keep pets and children away during application, and ventilate the space afterward.
- For natural options, sprinkle diatomaceous earth on carpet fibers and leave for 24 hours before vacuuming. This abrasive powder desiccates insects without chemicals.
After treatment, monitor for several weeks. Place sticky flea traps near pet sleeping spots to detect lingering activity. Maintain a schedule of weekly vacuuming and monthly IGR application to keep the environment hostile to fleas. Regular grooming and preventive medication for pets further diminish the risk of re‑infestation.