How to get rid of household fleas? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then immediately discard the bag or clean the canister; wash all bedding and pet fabrics in hot water. Apply a flea‑killing spray or powder approved for indoor use and treat pets with a veterinarian‑recommended product to break the life cycle.
How to get rid of household fleas? - in detail
Fleas infest a residence when adult insects, eggs, larvae, or pupae are present on carpets, bedding, or pets. Immediate eradication requires a systematic approach that targets every life stage.
- Conduct a thorough visual inspection of all rooms, focusing on seams of furniture, under cushions, and pet sleeping areas. Use a bright flashlight to locate moving insects or specks of dark debris that indicate eggs.
- Wash all removable fabrics—bedding, blankets, curtains, and pet bedding—in water hotter than 60 °C. Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes to kill larvae and pupae.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery repeatedly. After each session, seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors to prevent re‑infestation.
- Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved adulticide and an insect growth regulator (IGR). Apply the product according to the label, typically once a month for sustained control.
- Apply an IGR spray or fogger to indoor spaces. These chemicals interrupt development from egg to adult, reducing the population over several weeks. Follow manufacturer instructions regarding ventilation and exposure time.
- For households preferring non‑chemical measures, use diatomaceous earth or silica aerogel powders on carpets and pet areas. Spread a thin layer, leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points around doors, windows, and baseboards. Prevent outdoor fleas from entering by maintaining a clean perimeter and trimming vegetation that contacts the building.
Maintain a schedule: vacuum daily for the first two weeks, wash bedding weekly, and repeat pet treatments as directed. Continuous monitoring for adult fleas will confirm the success of the program. If activity persists after four weeks, consult a professional pest‑control service for a targeted intervention.