Small fleas in an apartment: what to do?

Small fleas in an apartment: what to do? - briefly

Locate the infestation, vacuum all carpets, upholstery and cracks, then wash bedding and curtains in hot water. Apply a targeted flea spray or powder according to the product instructions and repeat treatment after a week.

Small fleas in an apartment: what to do? - in detail

Fleas can survive on carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding, reproducing quickly if left unchecked. The first step is to confirm their presence by examining pets for bite marks, combing fur with a fine-toothed flea comb, and checking seams of furniture for dark specks.

1. Immediate removal of adult insects

   • Vacuum all floors, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
   • Wash pet bedding, curtains, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Apply a flea‑specific spray or fogger approved for indoor use, following label instructions for dosage and ventilation.

2. Targeting eggs and larvae

   • Sprinkle a powdered insect growth regulator (IGR) on carpets and cracks; the substance prevents immature stages from developing into adults.
   • Use a steam cleaner on carpets and upholstery; heat above 50 °C kills larvae concealed in fibers.
   • Repeat vacuuming and washing after 48 hours to capture newly hatched insects.

3. Treating pets

   • Administer a veterinarian‑recommended topical or oral flea medication; ensure the product covers both adult fleas and their early stages.
   • Groom pets daily with a flea comb to remove any remaining insects and monitor for reinfestation.

4. Environmental control

   • Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using a dehumidifier; fleas thrive in moist conditions.
   • Seal cracks around baseboards, windows, and doors to limit access to outdoor flea sources.
   • Maintain regular cleaning schedule: vacuum weekly, wash bedding biweekly, and inspect pets monthly.

5. Long‑term prevention

   • Continue monthly prophylactic treatment for pets throughout the flea season.
   • Rotate carpet cleaning methods (vacuum, steam, IGR) every few weeks to break the life cycle.
   • Keep outdoor areas trimmed and free of debris to minimize flea reservoirs near the residence.

By executing these actions systematically, the infestation can be eliminated, and the risk of recurrence significantly reduced.