How to treat bedding against fleas and ticks? - briefly
Wash all bedding in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat, then apply a pet‑safe insecticidal spray or powder to the fabric and let it dry completely. Follow with thorough vacuuming of the mattress and surrounding area, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister to remove any remaining parasites.
How to treat bedding against fleas and ticks? - in detail
Treating sleeping surfaces for flea and tick infestations requires a systematic approach that eliminates existing parasites and prevents re‑infestation.
First, remove all loose debris. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding floor area using a brush attachment. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and place it in an outdoor trash container.
Next, launder all removable fabrics. Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and pet bedding in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes. Add an approved laundry additive, such as a pet‑safe insecticide powder, according to the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Dry items on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 20 minutes; heat kills both adult insects and eggs.
For non‑removable items, apply a contact insecticide formulated for indoor use. Choose a product labeled for fleas and ticks, containing ingredients such as permethrin, pyrethrins, or spinosad. Follow label directions precisely: spray evenly, saturating seams, folds, and hidden crevices. Allow the treated surface to remain wet for the specified contact time, then ventilate the room.
After chemical treatment, employ environmental controls. Reduce humidity to below 50 % using a dehumidifier, as low moisture levels inhibit egg development. Seal cracks and gaps in walls, baseboards, and under furniture to block entry points. Install a low‑level indoor trap, such as a sticky pad with a pheromone lure, to monitor residual activity.
Finally, establish a maintenance schedule. Vacuum the sleeping area weekly, repeat the hot‑wash cycle for bedding every two weeks, and reapply insecticide according to the product’s re‑treatment interval (typically 30 days). Regularly inspect pets for signs of infestation and treat them with veterinarian‑approved flea and tick preventatives to eliminate the source.
By integrating thorough cleaning, heat treatment, targeted insecticides, and environmental management, bedding can be rendered inhospitable to fleas and ticks, protecting both humans and animals from bites and disease transmission.