What should be done if fleas appear in the house, and how to get rid of them at home? - briefly
Vacuum all floors and upholstery, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication, and apply an indoor flea spray or powder to carpets, cracks, and baseboards.
What should be done if fleas appear in the house, and how to get rid of them at home? - in detail
If a flea infestation is detected indoors, immediate action is required to prevent rapid population growth and protect both humans and pets.
First, locate the source. Inspect pets, bedding, carpets, and cracks in flooring. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on animals and collect any insects for identification.
Next, cleanse the environment thoroughly:
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag after each use.
- Steam‑clean hard floors and upholstered furniture to reach hidden larvae.
Apply an appropriate insecticide or natural treatment:
- Choose a product labeled for indoor flea control that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, pyrethrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen.
- Follow label directions precisely, covering baseboards, under furniture, and crevices.
- For households preferring non‑chemical options, sprinkle diatomaceous earth on carpets and leave for 48 hours before vacuuming; repeat weekly until no fleas are observed.
Treat pets concurrently to stop re‑infestation:
- Administer a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication that provides at least one month of protection.
- Groom the animal with a flea comb after treatment to remove any remaining insects.
Maintain preventive measures:
- Keep humidity below 50 % to hinder flea development.
- Trim grass and shrubs around the home to reduce outdoor reservoirs.
- Schedule regular veterinary flea preventatives for all animals.
Monitor the situation for two weeks. If adult fleas are still present after several treatment cycles, consult a professional pest‑control service for a targeted approach. Continuous vigilance and combined environmental and pet treatment will eradicate the infestation and prevent recurrence.