What should be done if there are fleas on the floor and they have infested the house? - briefly
Vacuum all floors, carpets, and upholstery, wash bedding and curtains in hot water, and administer a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to all pets. Follow with an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger, repeat the cleaning cycle after 7–10 days, and continue monitoring for any remaining insects.
What should be done if there are fleas on the floor and they have infested the house? - in detail
Fleas have appeared on the floor and have spread throughout the residence. Immediate containment is essential to prevent further reproduction and to protect occupants and pets.
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Mop hard floors with a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish detergent; follow with a rinse using water mixed with a small amount of white vinegar.
Treat the animals that share the environment. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea‑control product to each pet, following the label instructions for dosage and frequency. Groom pets with a flea comb to remove adult insects and eggs. If pets are not yet treated, begin a regimen within 24 hours.
Apply an insecticide specifically labeled for indoor flea control. Choose a product containing an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Spray cracks, baseboards, under furniture, and pet sleeping areas; allow the treated surfaces to dry before re‑entering the rooms. For severe infestations, consider a professional pest‑control service that can apply residual treatments and foggers safely.
Maintain a preventive routine to inhibit recurrence. Repeat vacuuming and laundering weekly for at least one month. Keep pet bedding and indoor rugs clean, and use a monthly topical or oral flea preventive on all animals. Seal entry points such as gaps around doors and windows to limit outdoor flea ingress.
By executing thorough cleaning, appropriate pet treatment, targeted insecticide application, and sustained preventive measures, the flea population can be eliminated and the home restored to a safe, pest‑free condition.