What should be used to wash the floor to eliminate fleas? - briefly
Use hot water (minimum 130 °F) mixed with a flea‑killing detergent or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water) and mop the floor thoroughly.
What should be used to wash the floor to eliminate fleas? - in detail
To eradicate fleas from a hard‑surface floor, the cleaning regimen must combine mechanical removal and a chemical or thermal agent that destroys all life stages.
Begin with thorough debris removal. Vacuum the area using a model equipped with a HEPA filter; immediately empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the dwelling. This eliminates adult fleas and eggs hidden in dust.
Follow with a wet cleaning step. Prepare a solution of hot water (minimum 60 °C) mixed with a concentrated dish‑washing detergent. Apply the mixture with a mop, ensuring the floor remains wet for at least five minutes. The heat denatures flea proteins, while the surfactant lowers surface tension, allowing the liquid to penetrate crevices.
For additional lethality, incorporate one of the following agents:
- A diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite). Suitable for non‑porous tiles, linoleum, and sealed wood; rinse thoroughly after a three‑minute contact time.
- An enzymatic cleaner formulated for pet‑related stains. Enzymes break down organic matter that serves as a food source for larvae; allow a ten‑minute dwell before rinsing.
- A certified flea‑killing floor disinfectant containing ingredients such as permethrin, pyrethrin, or pyriproxyfen. Follow label‑specified concentration and contact period.
- Steam cleaning at a temperature exceeding 130 °F (54 °C). Steam penetrates grout lines and floor joints, killing fleas without chemicals; repeat on high‑traffic zones.
After the wet phase, dry the floor completely using clean towels or a high‑speed fan. Drying prevents re‑hydration of any surviving eggs.
Maintain a schedule of weekly vacuuming and monthly wet cleaning with one of the listed agents until flea activity ceases. For persistent infestations, treat surrounding carpets and upholstery with the same disinfectant or steam, and consider professional pest‑control services to address hidden reservoirs.
All procedures should be performed in a well‑ventilated area; wear protective gloves and, if using chemical disinfectants, a mask to avoid inhalation of fumes. This systematic approach eliminates fleas from the floor and reduces the risk of re‑infestation.