How to eradicate fleas in an apartment with folk remedies? - briefly
«Spread food‑grade diatomaceous earth on carpets, rugs, pet bedding and cracks, leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly while rinsing pets with a diluted apple cider vinegar solution to repel fleas.» «Place shallow bowls of apple cider vinegar with a few drops of liquid soap in each room to attract and trap adult fleas, and repeat the entire process weekly until no insects are detected.»
How to eradicate fleas in an apartment with folk remedies? - in detail
Traditional home remedies can effectively control a flea infestation in a flat when applied systematically. The process begins with thorough cleaning, continues with natural insecticidal agents, and ends with preventive measures to stop re‑infestation.
First, remove adult fleas and eggs from all surfaces. Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstery, and mattress seams at least twice daily for a week. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and place it in an outdoor trash bin. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting.
Second, apply natural flea‑killing substances:
- Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth on carpets, pet bedding, and cracks. Leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeleton of fleas, leading to dehydration.
- Borax: Mix equal parts of borax and salt, add a few drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender or eucalyptus) for scent, and spread the mixture on floorboards and carpet edges. After 12 hours, vacuum completely.
- Vinegar solution: Combine one part white vinegar with one part water, add a few drops of peppermint oil, and spray onto pet sleeping areas, baseboards, and behind furniture. The acidic environment repels fleas and discourages egg laying.
- Baking soda and lemon: Dissolve half a cup of baking soda in a quart of boiling water, add the juice of one lemon, and apply to hard floors and tile grout. The mixture creates an inhospitable environment for larvae.
Third, treat pets with safe, folk‑based options. A diluted apple‑cider‑vinegar rinse (one part vinegar to four parts water) applied to the animal’s coat after bathing can deter fleas. Regular combing with a fine‑toothed flea comb removes adult insects and eggs.
Finally, maintain an environment that prevents future outbreaks:
- Keep humidity below 50 % by using a dehumidifier; fleas thrive in moist conditions.
- Seal cracks in walls and flooring to eliminate hiding places.
- Rotate and vacuum rugs weekly, and wash pet bedding weekly in hot water.
- Apply a light sprinkling of diatomaceous earth monthly as a long‑term barrier.
Consistent execution of these steps eliminates existing fleas, destroys developing stages, and creates conditions unfavorable for new infestations without relying on chemical pesticides.