How to fight ticks in a private house? - briefly
Vacuum every room, upholstery, and pet bedding, then apply an indoor‑approved acaricide according to the product label, ensuring all cracks and gaps are sealed and humidity is kept low. Wash all linens and clothing in hot water and repeat the treatment after two weeks to eliminate any newly hatched ticks.
How to fight ticks in a private house? - in detail
Ticks can become a serious problem inside a home when they hitch a ride on pets, clothing, or rodents. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines thorough cleaning, targeted treatments, and preventive measures.
Begin by identifying the extent of infestation. Inspect bedding, carpets, upholstered furniture, and cracks in walls or floors. Use a bright flashlight to spot dark, oval bodies. Remove any visible specimens with disposable gloves and place them in a sealed bag for disposal.
Next, eliminate sources of shelter and food. Wash all linens, curtains, and removable fabric at temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F). Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered surfaces repeatedly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately. Pay special attention to pet bedding and areas where animals rest.
Apply appropriate acaricides after cleaning. Choose products registered for indoor use, such as pyrethrin‑based sprays or diatomaceous earth. Follow label instructions precisely, covering cracks, baseboards, and the undersides of furniture. For households with children or pets, opt for low‑toxicity formulations and keep treated areas vacant until drying is complete.
Consider natural adjuncts when chemical options are unsuitable. Sprinkling food‑grade diatomaceous earth in carpet seams and along baseboards creates a mechanical barrier that dehydrates ticks. Essential‑oil blends containing eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint may repel ticks, but they should be diluted and tested on a small area first to avoid staining.
Prevent re‑infestation by maintaining a sealed environment. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations with caulk or weather‑stripping. Install screens on vents and chimneys. Keep pets on regular veterinary tick‑preventive programs, and groom them daily to detect and remove any attached ticks before they enter the house.
Regular monitoring sustains control. Conduct a brief visual survey weekly for the first month after treatment, then monthly thereafter. Repeat vacuuming and spot‑treat any new findings promptly to keep the residence tick‑free.