What do fleas look like on furniture? - briefly
Fleas appear as tiny, dark specks about 1–3 mm long that jump or crawl across upholstery, cushions, and wooden surfaces. Their laterally flattened bodies make them difficult to see when stationary.
What do fleas look like on furniture? - in detail
Fleas that infest upholstered surfaces are tiny, typically ranging from 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm in length. Their bodies are laterally flattened, allowing them to navigate tight crevices in fabric and padding. The exoskeleton exhibits a dark brown to reddish‑black hue, often appearing glossy under light. Legs are long relative to body size, ending in small claws that cling to fibers.
Movement is erratic; fleas jump several inches when disturbed, creating brief, sudden bursts across cushions or the underside of chairs. When at rest, they lie motionless, blending with the texture of the material.
Visible indicators include:
- Small, dark specks moving rapidly across the surface.
- Tiny, black fecal spots (approximately 0.2 mm) that may appear as dust‑like particles.
- Tiny white or yellowish eggs, usually less than 0.5 mm, clustered near seams or in folds.
- Red, localized skin irritations on people or pets that have been in contact with the furniture.
Inspection tips:
- Use a bright flashlight to illuminate seams, stitching, and the underside of cushions.
- Run a fine‑toothed comb or a lint roller over fabric; examine the collected material under magnification.
- Lift upholstery and check the padding and frame for live insects or egg clusters.
- Observe any sudden, short‑range jumps when the fabric is tapped or brushed.
Recognizing these characteristics enables accurate identification and timely treatment of flea infestations on household furniture.