How to get fleas off a bed? - briefly
Wash all sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in water above 60 °C and tumble‑dry on high heat. Then vacuum the mattress, apply a flea‑kill spray safe for upholstery, and treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved medication to stop recurrence.
How to get fleas off a bed? - in detail
Eliminate fleas from a mattress and bedding through a systematic approach.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Strip the bed of all linens, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Launder each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of fleas.
Treat the mattress itself. Vacuum the entire surface, including seams and crevices, using a brush attachment. Dispose of vacuum contents in a sealed bag. Apply a flea‑specific spray or powder labeled safe for bedding, following manufacturer dosage instructions. Allow the product to remain on the mattress for the recommended contact time, then vacuum again to remove residual particles.
Address the surrounding environment. Wash or replace pet bedding, carpets, and rugs near the sleeping area. Use a steam cleaner on carpeted floors and upholstery; steam at temperatures above 150 °F / 65 °C penetrates fabric and eradicates hidden fleas and eggs. For hardwood or tile floors, mop with a solution containing a few drops of insecticidal soap.
Implement ongoing prevention. Use a flea‑preventive collar or topical medication on pets, applied according to veterinary guidance. Place flea traps or sticky pads under the bed legs to monitor any residual activity. Repeat the cleaning cycle weekly for three weeks to interrupt the flea life cycle, which typically spans 2–3 weeks from egg to adult.
Maintain a flea‑free zone by keeping pets off the bed, storing bedding in sealed containers, and performing regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter. Consistent application of these steps ensures complete removal of fleas from the sleeping surface and prevents reinfestation.