How to treat an apartment for fleas and bedbugs? - briefly
Start by vacuuming floors, carpets, and upholstery, then wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water. Follow with a licensed insecticide spray or fogger that targets both fleas and bed bugs, and hire professional pest control if the infestation persists.
How to treat an apartment for fleas and bedbugs? - in detail
Treating a dwelling for fleas and bedbugs requires a systematic approach that combines thorough inspection, targeted eradication, and preventive measures.
Begin with a complete assessment. Examine all sleeping areas, upholstered furniture, carpets, baseboards, and cracks in walls or flooring. Use a bright flashlight to locate live insects, eggs, and shed skins. Mark infested zones with tape to focus treatment.
Remove and launder all removable fabrics. Wash bedding, curtains, and clothing in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve the pests.
Vacuum every room meticulously. Pay special attention to seams, folds, and edges of mattresses, sofas, and rugs. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the building. Follow vacuuming with steam cleaning where possible; steam at temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) kills both adult insects and eggs.
Apply chemical controls only after non‑chemical steps have reduced the population. Use an EPA‑registered aerosol or liquid insecticide labeled for both fleas and bedbugs. Treat cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture according to the product label. Allow the area to ventilate for the recommended period before reoccupying the space.
Consider non‑chemical alternatives for hard‑to‑reach areas. Diatomaceous earth, applied thinly to carpet edges and under furniture, desiccates insects. Heat‑tolerant items can be placed in a portable heater chamber set to 55 °C (131 °F) for several hours, ensuring complete mortality.
Seal all potential re‑entry points. Repair damaged screens, caulk gaps around baseboards, and install door sweeps. Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places. Use mattress encasements that are certified to block bedbugs and fleas, and replace worn carpet padding.
Schedule a follow‑up inspection 7‑10 days after the initial treatment. Re‑vacuum and re‑steam any areas where insects are still detected. Repeat chemical applications if residual activity is required, adhering strictly to label intervals.
Maintain ongoing vigilance. Conduct monthly visual checks, keep bedding and clothing at high temperatures during laundry, and promptly address any new signs of infestation. Consistent execution of these steps will eradicate the pests and prevent future outbreaks.