How to remove fleas from a blanket? - briefly
Wash the blanket in hot water (minimum 130 °F) with detergent and dry it on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; the heat kills all life stages of fleas. If any insects remain, treat the fabric with a veterinary‑approved flea spray or powder according to the product instructions.
How to remove fleas from a blanket? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a blanket requires a systematic approach that combines heat, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
First, isolate the contaminated item to prevent spreading. Place the blanket in a sealed plastic bag and transport it to a laundry area where high‑temperature equipment is available.
Thermal method
- Set the washing machine to the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate (typically 60 °C / 140 °F).
- Add a full dose of detergent; consider a detergent formulated for pest control if available.
- Run a complete wash, then transfer the blanket to a dryer set to the highest safe temperature for the material (often 70 °C / 158 °F).
- Dry for at least 30 minutes to ensure any remaining fleas or eggs are destroyed.
Chemical method
If heat alone is insufficient or the fabric cannot withstand high temperatures, apply an insecticidal treatment:
- Choose a product labeled for use on textiles (e.g., permethrin‑based spray).
- Test a small, inconspicuous area to verify colorfastness.
- Evenly mist the entire surface, following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions.
- Allow the blanket to air dry in a well‑ventilated space for the recommended period, typically 4–6 hours.
Vacuuming
Before washing, vacuum the blanket on a low‑suction setting to remove adult fleas and loose eggs. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it immediately.
Post‑treatment prevention
- Store the cleaned blanket in a sealed container.
- Treat the surrounding environment with a residual flea spray or apply diatomaceous earth to carpets and flooring.
- Maintain regular vacuuming and laundering of bedding to reduce reinfestation risk.
By integrating high‑temperature laundering, targeted insecticide application, and environmental control, fleas and their developmental stages can be eradicated from a blanket effectively.