What should be done if ticks are crawling in the house? - briefly
Locate and safely remove all ticks, then thoroughly clean and vacuum the affected rooms, washing bedding and fabrics in hot water; apply an appropriate acaricide or natural repellent and seal entry points to prevent further infestation.
What should be done if ticks are crawling in the house? - in detail
If ticks are found moving around inside the residence, act promptly to eliminate the immediate threat and prevent future infestations.
First, locate and remove any visible arthropods. Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and place the specimen in a sealed container for disposal. Do not crush the body, as this can release pathogens.
Next, conduct a thorough cleaning of the affected area:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and fabric items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture repeatedly, focusing on seams, crevices, and under furniture. Empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Mop hard floors with a disinfectant solution that includes an appropriate acaricide (e.g., a product containing permethrin or pyrethrin, following label directions).
Inspect pets and treat them if necessary. Consult a veterinarian for an appropriate topical or oral acaricide regimen. Groom pets regularly, checking ears, neck, and under the tail for attached ticks.
Apply environmental control measures:
- Reduce humidity in basements and crawl spaces to below 50 % using dehumidifiers, as ticks thrive in moist conditions.
- Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundation walls to block entry points.
- Remove leaf litter, tall grass, and brush from the perimeter of the house to eliminate habitats where ticks originate.
If the infestation appears extensive or persists after these actions, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Request an integrated pest‑management plan that combines chemical treatments, monitoring devices, and long‑term prevention strategies.
Finally, monitor the indoor environment for several weeks. Check bedding, pet bedding, and high‑traffic areas daily. Record any new findings and repeat cleaning or treatment steps as needed until no ticks are detected.