If there are fleas in an apartment, how can they be eliminated? - briefly
Use vet‑approved flea treatments on pets, wash all bedding and upholstery in hot water, vacuum every carpet and floor seam, then apply an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray to cracks, baseboards, and furniture. Repeat the process after seven days to break the life cycle and prevent re‑infestation.
If there are fleas in an apartment, how can they be eliminated? - in detail
Fleas thrive in carpets, upholstery, pet bedding, and cracks in flooring. Eradicating them requires a systematic approach that targets adult insects, larvae, and eggs.
Start by removing as many insects as possible. Vacuum every floor covering, furniture, and crevice for at least 10 minutes; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag. Wash all linens, pet blankets, and removable covers in water hotter than 60 °C, then dry on high heat. Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved adulticide (e.g., topical fipronil or oral nitenpyram) to stop further egg deposition.
Apply insecticidal products to the environment. Use a spray containing permethrin, bifenthrin, or a pyrethrin‑based formulation on carpets, baseboards, and under furniture. For hard‑to‑reach areas, consider a powder such as diatomaceous earth or silica aerogel; these desiccate insects and larvae. Follow label directions precisely, wearing protective gloves and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Control conditions that favor development. Keep indoor humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or improving airflow. Reduce clutter that shelters insects. Replace or treat pet bedding regularly with flea‑preventive collars or spot‑on treatments.
Monitor progress with sticky traps placed near pet sleeping areas and along baseboards. Check traps weekly; a decline in captures indicates treatment efficacy. Repeat vacuuming and insecticide application after 7–10 days to address newly emerged adults.
If infestation persists after two treatment cycles, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can apply residual insecticides, foggers, or heat treatments that reach hidden infestations beyond DIY capabilities.