What do fleas fear in an apartment and how can they be eliminated at home with folk remedies? - briefly
Fleas are repelled by elevated temperature, reduced humidity, and strong aromatic agents such as citrus oil, vinegar, eucalyptus, and food‑grade diatomaceous earth. Eradication at home involves laundering fabrics in water above 60 °C, intensive vacuuming, dusting carpets with diatomaceous earth, and misting infested spots with a 1:1 apple cider vinegar‑water solution.
What do fleas fear in an apartment and how can they be eliminated at home with folk remedies? - in detail
Fleas, as small, blood‑feeding insects, avoid environments that disrupt their moisture balance and impede mobility. Low relative humidity (below 40 %) accelerates desiccation, making dry air a strong deterrent. Temperatures exceeding 30 °C increase metabolic stress, prompting movement away from heated zones. Direct exposure to bright, ultraviolet light reduces activity, as fleas prefer shaded, concealed areas. Strong odors such as citrus, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender interfere with their sensory receptors, causing repulsion.
Dry conditions can be created by dispersing fine, inert powders that absorb moisture from the flea exoskeleton. Diatomaceous earth, composed of silica particles, adheres to the cuticle and draws out fluids, leading to death through dehydration. Food‑grade grade is safe for humans and pets when applied thinly on carpets, pet bedding, and cracks in flooring. After a period of 24–48 hours, the powder can be vacuumed away.
Common household substances function as repellents or lethal agents:
- Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water; spray onto upholstery, baseboards, and pet resting places. Acetic acid disrupts the flea’s nervous system.
- Essential oil blend: Combine 10 drops of peppermint oil, 8 drops of eucalyptus oil, and 5 drops of lavender oil in 250 ml of water; apply with a spray bottle to cracks, crevices, and pet carriers. Oils act on olfactory receptors, causing avoidance.
- Salt: Sprinkle coarse salt along baseboards and under furniture; the abrasive texture damages legs and impedes crawling.
- Borax: Lightly dust borax on carpets and mats; it irritates the exoskeleton and leads to mortality after contact.
- Herbal powders: Ground rosemary, sage, or neem leaves can be scattered on pet bedding; the phytochemicals possess insecticidal properties.
Effective elimination requires repeated application. After treating an area, vacuum thoroughly to remove dead insects and residual powder. Wash all linens, curtains, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) to eradicate eggs and larvae. Maintain humidity between 30–40 % using a dehumidifier, and keep indoor temperature moderate to discourage re‑infestation. Regular cleaning cycles, combined with the described folk remedies, provide a comprehensive, non‑chemical strategy for controlling flea populations within a dwelling.