How to fight fleas that have appeared in an apartment? - briefly
Begin by vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and floor seams, then wash all bedding and pet linens in hot water. Follow with a licensed indoor flea spray or fogger and treat pets using a veterinarian‑approved flea preventative.
How to fight fleas that have appeared in an apartment? - in detail
Fleas infest an indoor environment when adult insects, eggs, and larvae are present on carpets, furniture, and pets. Prompt eradication requires a systematic approach that targets every stage of the flea life cycle.
First, isolate and treat animals that may be harboring adult fleas. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide, following the product’s dosage instructions precisely. Repeat the treatment after seven days to eliminate newly emerged insects that survived the initial dose.
Second, remove adult fleas and eggs from the premises. Perform the following actions:
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Steam‑clean hard floors and carpets to reach temperatures that kill eggs and larvae.
- Use a flea‑specific spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen; apply according to label directions, ensuring adequate ventilation.
Third, address hidden breeding sites. Disassemble furniture, move stored items, and treat cracks, baseboards, and under‑floor spaces with an IGR powder or liquid concentrate. Repeat applications every two weeks for at least six weeks, matching the typical flea development period.
Fourth, maintain environmental conditions unfavorable to flea development. Reduce indoor humidity below 50 % and keep temperatures between 18–22 °C, which slows egg hatching. Seal entry points to prevent outdoor fleas from entering.
Finally, implement preventive measures to avoid recurrence:
- Continue monthly preventive medication for pets.
- Schedule regular vacuuming and laundering of pet bedding.
- Inspect new second‑hand furniture before introducing it into the home.
By executing these steps in a coordinated manner, the flea population can be eliminated and the risk of future infestations minimized.