How to treat clothing for fleas? - briefly
Wash the affected garments in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) with detergent and then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes to eliminate fleas and their eggs. If laundering is impractical, treat the clothing with an EPA‑approved insecticide spray per label instructions and seal it in a plastic bag for 24 hours.
How to treat clothing for fleas? - in detail
Treating garments that have become infested with fleas requires a systematic approach to eliminate adult insects, eggs, and larvae. The following protocol combines mechanical, chemical, and environmental methods to ensure thorough decontamination.
Begin by separating all items that may have been exposed. Wash each piece in the hottest water safe for the fabric, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Add a full‑strength laundry detergent and a cup of white vinegar to disrupt flea cuticles and reduce odor. For delicate fabrics that cannot withstand high temperatures, soak in a solution of warm water and a few drops of insecticidal soap for at least 30 minutes before gentle hand‑washing.
After washing, place the items in a dryer on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) kills adult fleas, eggs, and pupae. If dryer heat is insufficient for a particular fabric, transfer the clothing to a sealed plastic bag and place it in a freezer set to –4 °F (–20 °C) for 48 hours; sustained sub‑freezing temperatures are lethal to all life stages.
For persistent infestations, apply an approved flea spray or aerosol directly to the fabric’s interior and exterior surfaces. Follow the product label precisely, ensuring even coverage and allowing the recommended dwell time before re‑drying. Avoid over‑application, which can damage fibers and leave hazardous residues.
Vacuum the storage area, closets, and any surrounding surfaces. Use a HEPA‑rated vacuum to capture dislodged eggs and larvae. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
If the infestation is extensive or involves items that cannot be laundered, consider professional dry‑cleaning services that employ solvent‑based treatments known to eradicate fleas. Verify that the cleaning facility uses flea‑specific protocols.
Finally, store cleaned garments in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags to prevent re‑infestation. Include a few silica gel packets or a scented cedar block to deter future pests. Regularly inspect stored clothing for signs of flea activity and repeat the above steps if any recurrence is detected.