Lice and fleas in the house – how to get rid of them? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and bedding, then apply a licensed insecticide spray or powder specifically labeled for head‑lice and flea control, washing all fabrics in hot water. Maintain low indoor humidity, seal cracks, and conduct periodic inspections to prevent re‑infestation.
Lice and fleas in the house – how to get rid of them? - in detail
Infestations of head‑lice, body‑lice, and cat‑ or dog‑fleas can develop quickly in residential environments, compromising comfort and health. These parasites survive on human blood or animal hosts and multiply in clothing, bedding, carpets, and pet‑frequented areas.
Identify the problem before treatment.
- Examine all occupants for live insects or nits attached to hair shafts and clothing seams.
- Inspect pets for flea adults, larvae, and eggs on fur and in bedding.
- Search mattresses, sofas, and floor coverings for dark specks (feces) or moving insects.
- Use a bright flashlight and a fine‑tooth comb for lice detection; employ a flea trap or sticky tape for flea activity.
Eliminate the current population through a coordinated approach.
- Launder all removable textiles (clothing, sheets, pillowcases) at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring; immediately seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard.
- Apply an appropriate insecticide spray or powder labeled for indoor use against lice and fleas; follow manufacturer dosage and safety instructions, covering cracks, baseboards, and pet sleeping areas.
- Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product (topical, oral, or collar); repeat according to product schedule to break the life cycle.
- For head‑lice, use a medicated shampoo or lotion containing permethrin or dimethicone; repeat treatment after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nits.
Prevent recurrence by maintaining a hostile environment for parasites.
- Keep clothing and bedding in sealed containers for at least two weeks, the maximum flea development period.
- Trim hair to a manageable length, and regularly comb with a fine‑tooth lice comb.
- Schedule quarterly veterinary flea prevention for all pets.
- Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using dehumidifiers, as low moisture inhibits egg viability.
- Perform weekly vacuuming and monthly deep cleaning of upholstery and carpets.
By systematically inspecting, treating, and sustaining a clean, low‑humidity habitat, households can eradicate lice and fleas and prevent future outbreaks.