If fleas appear in an apartment, how to get rid of them at home? - briefly
Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstered furniture and cracks, then immediately discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag; follow with a thorough wash of bedding and pet linens in hot water. Apply a flea‑specific spray or powder containing insect growth regulator to floors and furniture, repeat after a week, and maintain regular cleaning to prevent reinfestation.
If fleas appear in an apartment, how to get rid of them at home? - in detail
Fleas in a residential unit require a systematic approach that combines environmental treatment, host management, and preventive measures.
Begin by removing all bedding, curtains, and washable fabrics from the infested area. Wash each item in water heated to at least 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes; add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to enhance lethality.
Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and after each pass, seal the bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard it outside the building. Repeat the vacuuming process daily for one week, then twice weekly for the next two weeks.
Apply an insecticidal spray or fogger specifically labeled for flea control. Choose a product containing an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Follow label directions regarding concentration, dwell time, and ventilation. Treat cracks, crevices, baseboards, and under furniture.
Address the animal host(s) simultaneously. Bathe pets with a flea‑comb and a veterinary‑approved shampoo; repeat every five days for three weeks. Administer a monthly topical or oral flea medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Wash pet bedding at the same temperature used for human linens.
Implement environmental deterrents to prevent re‑infestation. Place diatomaceous earth, food‑grade, in thin layers on carpets and under furniture; leave for 48 hours before vacuuming. Seal entry points such as gaps around doors, windows, and utility penetrations.
Monitor progress by placing sticky flea traps near suspected activity zones. Replace traps weekly; a decline in captured insects indicates effective control.
Maintain a strict cleaning schedule: weekly vacuuming, monthly laundering of all fabrics, and periodic re‑application of IGR products according to manufacturer recommendations. Consistent adherence to these steps eliminates the flea population and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.