What should be done with fleas in an apartment and how can they be eliminated at home using folk remedies? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then wash all bedding and pet bedding in hot water while isolating animals. Apply folk remedies such as diatomaceous earth, a spray of water mixed with a few drops of eucalyptus or lavender oil, and a light dusting of salt or borax in hidden crevices to kill remaining fleas.
What should be done with fleas in an apartment and how can they be eliminated at home using folk remedies? - in detail
Fleas in a dwelling require immediate action to prevent infestation of humans and pets. Begin with thorough cleaning: vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor seams daily for at least one week, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister outside the residence. Wash bedding, curtains, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat to destroy eggs and larvae.
Treat pets before addressing the environment. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea collar, shampoo, or topical preparation; consult a professional to avoid toxic reactions. After pet treatment, groom the animal with a fine‑toothed comb to remove remaining insects.
Folk remedies can complement chemical products, provided they are applied correctly:
- Diatomaceous earth – sprinkle a thin layer on carpets, under furniture, and in pet bedding; leave for 24 hours, then vacuum. The abrasive particles desiccate insects without harming mammals when food‑grade material is used.
- Salt – spread coarse salt on rugs and floorboards; after 48 hours, vacuum. Salt dehydrates fleas at all life stages.
- Borax – mix one part borax with two parts baking soda, apply to carpet fibers, let sit for several hours, then vacuum. The mixture disrupts the exoskeleton of the parasite.
- Essential oils – dilute 10 drops of eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint oil in 250 ml of water; spray onto fabrics, pet bedding, and flooring. Repeat every three days. Avoid direct skin contact with pets.
- White vinegar – combine equal parts vinegar and water, add a few drops of lemon oil, and spray in cracks, baseboards, and pet areas. The acidic solution repels adult fleas.
- Citrus peels – place fresh orange or lemon peels in closets and under furniture; the volatile oils deter movement.
Maintain low humidity (below 50 %) and keep indoor temperature between 18‑22 °C, as fleas thrive in warm, moist conditions. Seal cracks in walls and floors to block entry points from exterior sources. Regularly groom pets and inspect them for signs of infestation, especially after outdoor exposure.
If the infestation persists after two weeks of combined cleaning and folk treatments, consider professional pest control to prevent resurgence. Continuous vigilance and routine sanitation are essential to keep the dwelling flea‑free.