How to get rid of household fleas on the floor of an apartment? - briefly
Vacuum the entire floor area repeatedly, then apply a flea‑specific insecticide spray or powder containing an insect growth regulator, ensuring coverage of cracks and baseboards; wash or steam‑clean all removable fabrics afterward. Continue treatment and vacuuming weekly until no fleas are detected.
How to get rid of household fleas on the floor of an apartment? - in detail
Eliminate fleas from the floor of a dwelling by following a systematic approach.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Vacuum every carpet, rug, and hard‑surface area at least twice daily for a week. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; after each session, seal the bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard it outdoors to prevent re‑infestation.
Next, treat the environment with an insecticide approved for indoor use. Select a product containing a combination of an adulticide (e.g., permethrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, focusing on cracks, baseboards, under furniture, and the underside of floorboards. Allow the treated surfaces to dry completely before re‑entering the area.
Address hidden reservoirs. Wash all removable bedding, curtains, and pet blankets in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble dry on high heat. For non‑washable items, place them in a sealed bag for at least 48 hours; fleas cannot survive beyond this period without a blood meal.
If pets are present, treat them simultaneously. Use a veterinarian‑recommended topical or oral flea control product that kills both adult fleas and larvae. Groom the animal with a flea comb to remove remaining insects and eggs.
Maintain a dry environment. Repair leaks, improve ventilation, and use a dehumidifier if humidity exceeds 50 %. Dry conditions hinder flea development.
Schedule a follow‑up inspection after 7 days and repeat the vacuum‑treatment cycle for another week. A final repeat of the insecticide application after 14 days ensures any newly emerged adults are eradicated.
Monitor the situation by placing sticky flea traps in high‑traffic zones. Replace traps weekly; a decline in captured insects confirms successful control.
Implement these steps consistently to achieve complete eradication of fleas from the floor area and prevent recurrence.