How to get rid of earth fleas in an apartment by oneself? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets and upholstery, then treat infested areas with diatomaceous earth or a low‑toxicity insecticide dust while sealing cracks and reducing indoor humidity. Repeat the process weekly until no fleas are observed.
How to get rid of earth fleas in an apartment by oneself? - in detail
Eliminating springtails from a flat requires a systematic approach that targets the insects’ habitat and life cycle.
First, locate areas with excess moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and under sinks. Use a moisture meter or visual inspection to confirm damp spots. Reduce humidity by fixing leaks, installing a vent, or running a dehumidifier until relative humidity stays below 50 %.
Second, remove organic debris that serves as food. Vacuum carpets, floor seams, and upholstery daily, discarding the bag or emptying the canister outside the dwelling. Sweep and mop hard floors with hot water mixed with a few drops of dish detergent; repeat the process weekly until activity ceases.
Third, seal entry points. Apply silicone caulk to gaps around windows, doors, pipe penetrations, and baseboards. Install weather stripping on exterior doors.
Fourth, employ physical traps. Place shallow dishes filled with a mixture of water, a few drops of liquid soap, and a pinch of sugar near suspected hideouts. The insects drown after contacting the solution. Replace the solution every 24 hours.
Fifth, consider low‑toxicity insecticides if the infestation persists. Use a dust containing silica gel or diatomaceous earth, applying it lightly to cracks, crevices, and under furniture. Wear a mask and gloves during application; re‑apply after cleaning or when the dust is disturbed.
Finally, maintain preventive conditions. Keep indoor humidity low, ventilate rooms regularly, and avoid storing damp items such as wet laundry or potted plants with soggy soil. Periodic inspection of potential moisture sources and prompt remediation will keep springtails from returning.