How to remove fleas from an apartment and where did they come from? - briefly
Eliminate fleas by vacuuming every carpet, rug, and upholstery, washing all linens in hot water, and treating the space with an EPA‑approved insecticide spray or fogger, then repeat the treatment after a week to target newly emerged adults. Fleas usually appear when infested pets, rodents, or used furniture introduce eggs and larvae into the living area.
How to remove fleas from an apartment and where did they come from? - in detail
Fleas infest a dwelling when adult insects or their eggs are introduced via pets, wildlife, or contaminated objects. Common entry points include:
- Dogs, cats, or other animals that have been outdoors or in contact with other infested animals.
- Rodents, squirrels, or stray cats that have entered through cracks or open windows.
- Second‑hand furniture, rugs, or bedding that have housed fleas previously.
- Clothing or luggage carried from infested locations.
Once inside, female fleas lay 20–50 eggs per day, which fall off the host onto carpets, cracks, and upholstery. Eggs hatch into larvae within 2–5 days, develop into pupae, and emerge as adults when stimulated by heat, carbon dioxide, or vibrations.
Effective eradication requires a coordinated approach:
- Treat all animals – apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide and a growth‑inhibitor for larvae. Repeat treatment according to product instructions.
- Remove eggs and larvae – vacuum floors, carpets, upholstered furniture, and pet bedding thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash fabrics – launder all removable items (sheets, curtains, pet blankets) in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Apply an environmental insecticide – use a label‑approved spray or fogger that targets adult fleas and developing stages; follow safety guidelines, ventilate the space, and keep pets and people out for the recommended time.
- Treat cracks and crevices – apply a residual powder or spray to baseboards, under furniture, and in wall voids where pupae may reside.
- Seal entry points – repair screens, close gaps around doors and windows, and use door sweeps to prevent new infestations.
After the initial treatment, maintain a monitoring schedule: vacuum weekly for at least four weeks, repeat insecticide applications if the label permits, and continue regular pet prophylaxis. Persistent infestations may indicate hidden sources such as a pet’s bedding in an unused room or a neighboring unit; locate and address these before the cycle restarts.