Ticks appeared in the apartment – how to get rid of them? - briefly
Eliminate ticks by thoroughly vacuuming all floors, upholstery, and cracks, then applying a registered acaricide according to label directions; repeat the process weekly for several weeks. Finally, reduce future infestations by sealing entry points, maintaining low indoor humidity, and regularly washing pet bedding.
Ticks appeared in the apartment – how to get rid of them? - in detail
Ticks discovered indoors require immediate action to protect health and prevent infestation spread.
Identify the source. Check pets, especially dogs and cats, for attached ticks; examine coats, ears, and necks. Inspect bedding, curtains, carpets, and upholstery for live insects or shed skins. Use a flashlight to examine dark corners and baseboards.
Isolate the area. Remove pets from the apartment temporarily. Seal windows and doors to limit external entry. Vacuum all floors, rugs, and furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the container with hot, soapy water.
Apply treatment methods:
- Mechanical removal – wear disposable gloves, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure. Dispose of the insect in a sealed container, then disinfect the bite site.
- Chemical control – spray a registered indoor acaricide on carpets, cracks, and crevices according to label instructions. Focus on pet sleeping areas, under furniture, and along baseboards. Allow the product to dry before re‑occupying the space.
- Natural alternatives – apply diatomaceous earth to carpet fibers and leave for 48 hours before vacuuming. Use essential‑oil blends containing eucalyptus or tea‑tree in a diffuser, noting that these do not replace acaricides for heavy infestations.
Prevent recurrence:
- Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved tick collar, topical repellent, or oral medication. Maintain a regular grooming schedule to detect early attachment.
- Keep laundry and pet bedding at temperatures above 55 °C for at least 30 minutes to kill hidden ticks.
- Reduce outdoor access for pets during peak tick season; clear vegetation around building foundations.
- Install door sweeps and seal cracks in walls and floors to block entry points.
If the population persists after two treatment cycles, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. Request an integrated pest‑management plan that combines chemical, mechanical, and environmental strategies tailored to the specific indoor environment.