How to treat an apartment for fleas with ammonia solution? - briefly
Mix equal parts of household ammonia and water, spray the solution onto carpets, upholstery, and crevices, let it dry, then vacuum thoroughly; repeat the treatment after 48 hours to eliminate newly hatched fleas.
How to treat an apartment for fleas with ammonia solution? - in detail
Treating a living space for flea infestation with an ammonia mixture requires careful preparation, precise dilution, thorough application, and strict safety measures.
Begin by selecting a well‑ventilated area. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, and turn off any heating or cooling systems that could spread vapors. Wear protective equipment: rubber gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for chemical fumes.
Prepare the solution by mixing one part household ammonia (5–10 % concentration) with nine parts cold water. Stir gently; excessive agitation can release more vapors. Do not use undiluted ammonia, as the concentration is hazardous to humans, pets, and furnishings.
Apply the mixture with a spray bottle or a clean cloth. Focus on:
- Carpet fibers and under‑rug edges
- Upholstered furniture seams and cushions
- Cracks and crevices in flooring, baseboards, and wall junctions
- Pet bedding and any fabric that can be laundered separately
For each surface, dampen thoroughly without soaking. The liquid should remain moist for at least 30 minutes to allow the ammonia to penetrate flea eggs and larvae. After the contact period, rinse or vacuum the treated areas to remove residues.
Repeat the process every 48 hours for a full week. Flea life cycles can span several days; repeated applications ensure that newly hatched larvae encounter the residual ammonia before maturing.
After the final treatment, ventilate the apartment for several hours. Clean all treated fabrics in hot water or dry‑clean them if possible. Dispose of any contaminated cleaning tools in sealed bags.
Safety reminders:
- Keep children and pets out of the treated space until the ammonia odor has fully dissipated.
- Do not combine ammonia with bleach or other cleaning agents; toxic gases may form.
- Store ammonia in a locked cabinet away from food items and open containers.
Following these steps maximizes flea eradication while minimizing health risks and damage to household materials.