What should be done if fleas are under the floor? - briefly
Inspect the subfloor, locate the infestation, and apply a suitable flea treatment or engage a licensed pest‑control service; afterward, seal cracks, reduce moisture, and keep the area clean to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done if fleas are under the floor? - in detail
Fleas hidden beneath floorboards can quickly infest a home, requiring swift, systematic action.
First, confirm their presence. Lift floor sections or remove baseboard trim to expose the crawl space. Look for adult insects, dark specks of flea dirt, and small blood spots on fabric. Use a bright flashlight and a fine-toothed comb to collect specimens for identification.
Next, eliminate the infestation.
- Mechanical removal – vacuum the entire area, including edges and cracks, for at least 15 minutes. Immediately empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard.
- Chemical treatment – apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use on wood and concrete surfaces. Follow label directions for dilution, spray distance, and safety gear. Target seams, joist gaps, and any voids where fleas may hide.
- Biological control – introduce nematodes (Steinernema spp.) as a non‑chemical option. Mix with water according to instructions and pour into the subfloor, allowing the organisms to seek out larvae.
After treatment, verify success. Re‑inspect the area weekly for four weeks, repeating vacuuming and spot‑spraying any newly detected activity.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation.
- Seal cracks and gaps in flooring and foundation.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (45 % or lower) to deter flea development.
- Keep pets on a regular flea‑preventive regimen and treat bedding promptly.
- Install insect‑proof screens on vents and crawl‑space openings.
Following these steps removes existing fleas, confirms eradication, and reduces the likelihood of future outbreaks.