How to get rid of fleas in the bed and in the house? - briefly
Wash all linens in hot water, vacuum the mattress and surrounding areas, then apply a flea‑specific insecticide spray or fogger approved for indoor use, repeating treatment after 7 days to break the life cycle. Ensure pets are treated simultaneously to prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of fleas in the bed and in the house? - in detail
Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments and can quickly infest bedding and living areas. Effective eradication requires a systematic approach that targets adult insects, eggs, and larvae.
First, remove all bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery covers. Wash each item in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes; add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to increase mortality. Dry on high heat for a minimum of 20 minutes.
Second, vacuum every carpet, rug, and floor surface thoroughly. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and move slowly to dislodge eggs and larvae. After each session, empty the canister or bag into a sealed plastic bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.
Third, treat the environment with a residual insecticide approved for indoor use against fleas. Apply the product to baseboards, cracks, and crevices where fleas hide. Follow label directions regarding concentration, ventilation, and re‑application intervals.
Fourth, employ steam cleaning on mattresses, upholstered furniture, and hard floors. Steam at a temperature of at least 212 °F (100 °C) for several seconds per spot; the heat destroys all life stages on contact.
Fifth, address any animal hosts. Bathe pets with a flea‑killing shampoo and apply a veterinarian‑recommended topical or oral treatment. Groom pets daily with a flea comb to remove any remaining insects.
Sixth, reduce humidity and improve airflow. Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor relative humidity below 50 %, and open windows when weather permits to increase ventilation.
Seventh, maintain a preventive routine. Wash bedding weekly, vacuum high‑traffic areas twice a week, and repeat insecticide treatment according to the product’s schedule, typically every 2–4 weeks during peak flea season.
By combining thorough cleaning, chemical control, heat treatment, and host management, the flea population in both sleeping areas and the broader home can be eliminated and kept below detectable levels.