How to get rid of fleas from the house? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum all floors, carpets, and upholstery, wash bedding and pet blankets in hot water, then treat cracks, baseboards, and pet resting spots with an EPA‑approved insecticide spray or powder. Repeat vacuuming and treatment weekly for three‑plus weeks to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How to get rid of fleas from the house? - in detail
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments and can quickly spread from pets to carpets, furniture, and bedding. A systematic approach that targets both the host animals and the surrounding habitat is essential for complete eradication.
The first step is to treat any animals that may be carrying the parasites. Use a veterinarian‑recommended adulticide product—such as a topical solution, oral medication, or collar—according to the label instructions. Repeat the treatment after the life cycle completes (typically 7–10 days) to kill emerging insects.
Next, remove eggs, larvae, and adult fleas from the home environment. Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. For hard floors, mop with a detergent solution and allow the surface to dry completely.
Chemical control can be applied after cleaning. Choose an EPA‑registered insecticide formulated for indoor use, such as a spray, fogger, or powder. Apply according to the product label, covering baseboards, cracks, under furniture, and pet sleeping zones. Use a respirator and keep occupants and pets out of the treated area for the recommended ventilation period.
Non‑chemical options include diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) spread thinly over carpets and pet areas; the abrasive particles desiccate insects. A few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil diluted in water can be sprayed on non‑porous surfaces, but these agents do not replace thorough cleaning and insecticide use.
Prevent future outbreaks by maintaining a regular grooming routine for pets—frequent baths with flea‑preventive shampoo and monthly application of a veterinarian‑approved preventative. Vacuum the house at least twice weekly, focusing on high‑traffic zones. Treat the yard with a pet‑safe outdoor flea control product to reduce re‑introduction from the environment.
Finally, monitor the situation with flea‑specific sticky traps placed near baseboards and under furniture. Replace traps weekly and record any captures; a decline to zero over several weeks indicates successful eradication. Continuous vigilance and adherence to the outlined steps will keep the infestation under control.