How to poison fleas in the house with dichlorvos? - briefly
Apply dichlorvos liquid concentrate or aerosol to baseboards, carpet edges, and cracks according to label dosage, sealing and ventilating the treated area. Keep humans, pets, and food away from the space until the specified clearance time has passed.
How to poison fleas in the house with dichlorvos? - in detail
Dichlorvos is a volatile organophosphate insecticide that can eradicate indoor flea infestations when applied correctly. The compound acts as a neurotoxin, disrupting acetylcholinesterase activity in fleas and causing rapid mortality.
Preparation
- Acquire a product containing 2‑4 % dichlorvos, such as a liquid concentrate or impregnated strip.
- Verify the expiration date and ensure the container is intact.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a respirator rated for organic vapors.
- Remove or seal food, utensils, pet bedding, and any items that could absorb the chemical.
Application method
- Dilute the concentrate according to the manufacturer’s label, typically 1 ml of concentrate per liter of water.
- Fill a clean spray bottle with the solution; avoid agitation that creates excessive aerosol.
- Apply the spray uniformly to carpet fibers, upholstery, cracks, and crevices where fleas hide.
- For heavily infested areas, place dichlorvos‑impregnated strips in closed rooms; follow the recommended strip density (e.g., one strip per 10 m²).
Dosage and exposure time
- Maintain a concentration of 0.5–1 mg m⁻³ in the treated space.
- Keep the room sealed for 4–6 hours to allow vapor accumulation.
- After the exposure period, ventilate the area for at least 30 minutes before re‑entry.
Safety precautions
- Do not apply in occupied rooms; evacuate humans and pets during treatment.
- Store unused dichlorvos in its original container, locked away from children and animals.
- In case of skin contact, wash the area immediately with soap and water.
- If inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical attention promptly.
Post‑treatment measures
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery after ventilation to remove dead fleas and residual residue.
- Launder pet bedding at high temperature.
- Repeat the application after 7–10 days if flea eggs hatch, using the same dosage guidelines.
Disposal
- Dispose of empty containers and used strips according to local hazardous waste regulations.
- Rinse spray bottles thoroughly, then discard them as chemical waste.
Following these steps ensures effective flea eradication while minimizing health risks associated with dichlorvos exposure.