What should be done with house ticks? - briefly
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and bedding, then wash all fabrics in hot water. Apply a registered indoor acaricide and seal cracks or gaps to prevent further entry.
What should be done with house ticks? - in detail
House ticks that have entered a dwelling require immediate, systematic action to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
First, confirm the presence of ticks by inspecting bedding, carpets, and low‑lying furniture. Use a bright flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to locate specimens.
Next, remove all visible ticks manually. Grasp each tick as close to the skin as possible, pull straight upward with steady pressure, and dispose of it in sealed alcohol or a freezer‑proof container. Do not crush the body, as this may release pathogens.
After physical removal, treat the environment:
- Vacuum all floor coverings, upholstery, and mattress seams thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water.
- Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F); dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Apply a residual acaricide approved for indoor use to cracks, baseboards, and pet sleeping areas, following label instructions precisely.
- For severe infestations, consider fogging or misting with a professional‑grade product; ensure occupants and pets vacate the premises during application and for the recommended re‑entry interval.
Prevent future entries:
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundation vents; install fine mesh screens where appropriate.
- Keep lawns trimmed and remove leaf litter or tall grass that can harbor questing ticks.
- Treat pets with veterinarian‑recommended tick preventatives and regularly inspect them after outdoor exposure.
Finally, monitor the situation for at least four weeks. Place sticky traps in likely travel routes and re‑inspect the home weekly. If ticks persist despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑control service for a comprehensive assessment and targeted treatment plan.