How to get rid of clothing fleas? - briefly
Wash all clothing in water of at least 130 °F and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; then place items in sealed plastic bags and treat closets or drawers with an appropriate insecticide spray or diatomaceous earth. Repeat the process after a week to ensure any surviving eggs are destroyed.
How to get rid of clothing fleas? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from garments requires a systematic approach that combines heat, chemical treatment, and proper storage.
First, isolate the infested items. Place them in a sealed plastic bag to prevent fleas from escaping and contaminating other clothing.
Next, apply a high‑temperature wash. Use the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate (generally 60 °C/140 °F or higher). Add a full dose of laundry detergent and, if possible, a small amount of boric acid or a flea‑specific laundry additive.
After washing, transfer the items to a dryer. Run the dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of the flea, including eggs and larvae.
If the fabric cannot endure high heat, employ a freezing method. Seal the clothing in a waterproof bag and place it in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of 48 hours. Prolonged exposure to sub‑zero temperatures eliminates the parasites.
For persistent infestations, treat the clothing with an appropriate insecticide spray. Choose a product labeled for use on fabrics, follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions, and ensure thorough coverage of seams and folds. Allow the treated items to dry completely before handling.
Finally, store the cleaned garments in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags. Include a sachet of silica gel or a low‑toxicity repellant (e.g., cedar chips) to deter future infestations. Regularly inspect stored clothing for signs of re‑infestation and repeat the cleaning cycle if necessary.
Summary of steps
- Isolate and seal infested items.
- Wash on the hottest safe temperature with detergent and optional flea additive.
- Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Freeze at –18 °C for 48 hours if heat is unsuitable.
- Apply fabric‑safe insecticide if required.
- Store in airtight, moisture‑controlled containers with repellants.
Following this protocol removes fleas from clothing and minimizes the risk of recurrence.