How to eliminate household fleas? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea product, launder all bedding and upholstery in hot water, and apply a residual insecticide spray to carpets, cracks, and baseboards. Repeat the treatment weekly for three weeks while vacuuming thoroughly after each application to eradicate eggs and larvae.
How to eliminate household fleas? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a residence requires a systematic approach that targets adult insects, larvae, and eggs. Begin by treating all pets with a veterinarian‑approved adulticide and a monthly preventer. Use a topical solution, oral medication, or a collar that remains effective for at least 30 days. After applying the product, comb the animal with a fine‑toothed flea comb, discarding captured insects into soapy water.
Next, focus on the indoor environment. Vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstered seat, and floor crevice thoroughly. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash container to prevent re‑infestation. Follow the vacuuming with a steam treatment on carpets and upholstery; steam at temperatures above 130 °F kills all life stages.
Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or fogger that contains methoprene or pyriproxyfen to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. These chemicals inhibit development of eggs and larvae, breaking the life cycle. Ensure the product is labeled for indoor use and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions, including ventilation and removal of pets and people for the recommended period.
Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in a sealed bag for two weeks, the duration of the flea life cycle, to starve any hidden stages.
Maintain a regular schedule: repeat vacuuming and steam cleaning weekly for at least three weeks, reapply IGR treatments as directed, and continue monthly pet preventatives. Monitor progress by inspecting pets and using sticky traps placed near baseboards; a decline in captured fleas indicates successful control.
If infestation persists after several cycles, consider professional pest‑control services that can apply residual insecticides and perform a comprehensive inspection of hidden areas such as wall voids and crawl spaces.