How to get rid of fleas in a private house using home remedies on the floor? - briefly
Vacuum all flooring surfaces, then apply a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth mixed with baking soda, leave it for several hours, and vacuum again; wash pet bedding and any removable fabrics in hot water. Repeat the treatment weekly until fleas are no longer observed.
How to get rid of fleas in a private house using home remedies on the floor? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a home requires a systematic approach that targets the floor, where eggs and larvae accumulate. Begin by removing all loose debris: sweep or use a dry mop to collect visible particles, then dispose of the material in a sealed bag. Follow with a thorough vacuuming of carpets, rugs, and hard‑floor seams, using the hose attachment to reach baseboards and under furniture. Empty the vacuum canister or bag immediately into a sealed container and discard it outside the house.
Apply a fine layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth (DE) to the entire floor surface. The powder’s abrasive particles damage the exoskeletons of insects, causing dehydration. Spread DE evenly, leave it for at least 12 hours, then vacuum it up, repeating the process for three consecutive days to break the flea life cycle.
For hardwood or tile, sprinkle a mixture of baking soda and coarse salt (ratio 2:1) across the floor. Both substances absorb moisture and disrupt the development of eggs. Allow the blend to sit for 30 minutes, then sweep or vacuum it away. This step also helps neutralize odors that attract pests.
Prepare a natural spray using distilled white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) with a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil. The acids in vinegar repel adult fleas, while the essential oils act as deterrents. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle, mist the floor lightly, and let it air dry. Avoid saturating the surface to prevent damage to wood finishes.
Wash all removable floor coverings—rugs, matting, and fabric floor runners—in hot water (minimum 130 °F/55 °C) with a regular laundry detergent. Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for additional insecticidal effect. Dry items on high heat or under direct sunlight.
Treat pet bedding and any fabric that contacts the floor in the same manner: wash, dry, and apply a thin DE coating before returning them to the sleeping area. Ensure pets are bathed with a flea‑specific shampoo or a mild soap solution, then brushed to remove adult insects and eggs.
Maintain a preventive routine: vacuum daily for the first two weeks, then twice weekly thereafter. Reapply DE and the vinegar‑oil spray weekly for a month, then monthly as needed. Seal cracks and gaps in flooring, especially around baseboards, to block entry points for new infestations.
By executing these steps—mechanical removal, abrasive powder treatment, alkaline mineral application, acidic spray deterrence, and regular sanitation—the flea population on floor surfaces can be reduced to zero, preventing re‑infestation and protecting both occupants and pets.