What should be done with ticks in an apartment? - briefly
Vacuum floors, carpets, and upholstery thoroughly, then launder bedding and clothing in hot water. Apply an appropriate acaricide to cracks, baseboards, and pet‑housing areas to eradicate any remaining ticks.
What should be done with ticks in an apartment? - in detail
Ticks discovered inside a flat require immediate, systematic action to protect occupants and prevent further infestation.
First, isolate the area where ticks were found. Close doors and windows to limit movement, then wear disposable gloves and use fine‑toothed tweezers to grasp each tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull steadily upward without twisting, then place the specimen in a sealed container for disposal or identification.
Next, eliminate any remaining stages in the environment:
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor seams thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Steam‑clean hard floors and upholstery, as high temperature kills all life stages.
- Inspect pet bedding and grooming tools; wash or replace as needed.
After cleaning, address the source of the problem:
- Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved acaricide (spot‑on, collar, oral medication) and repeat according to the product schedule.
- Examine outdoor entry points—cracks, gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations—and seal them with caulk or weather‑stripping.
- Reduce vegetation within a two‑meter radius of the building; trim grass, remove leaf litter, and keep shrubs trimmed to discourage tick habitats.
If the infestation persists despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Request a targeted acaricide application, preferably a low‑toxicity product approved for indoor use, and ensure the technician follows integrated pest‑management protocols.
Finally, monitor the situation for at least four weeks. Conduct weekly visual inspections of flooring, bedding, and pet areas, and maintain regular preventive treatments for pets. Early detection and consistent sanitation will prevent re‑establishment of ticks in the living space.