What should I do if there are fleas at home? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, floors, and upholstery, then discard the bag; wash all bedding and pet linens in hot water. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to pets and use a safe indoor insecticide, repeating the process for two weeks.
What should I do if there are fleas at home? - in detail
If fleas have been detected in your living space, immediate and systematic action is required to eradicate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
First, isolate the problem area. Remove pets from the room, wash their bedding, and place them in a clean, flea‑free zone while treatment proceeds. Clean all surfaces that pets frequently contact: floors, carpets, upholstery, and pet crates. Vacuum thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and corners; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and dispose of it outdoors.
Next, apply an appropriate insecticide. Choose a product labeled for indoor flea control, following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Treat:
- Carpets and rugs, spraying evenly and allowing the surface to dry before walking on it.
- Upholstered furniture, using a foam‑applicator to reach crevices.
- Pet sleeping areas, applying a diluted solution if the label permits.
After the insecticide has dried, wash all removable fabrics—curtains, pillowcases, pet blankets—at the highest temperature the material can tolerate. Use a dryer on a hot setting to kill any remaining insects and eggs.
Implement ongoing prevention. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to each pet, repeating according to the product’s schedule (typically monthly). Maintain a regular cleaning routine: vacuum weekly, wash pet bedding weekly, and inspect pets for signs of fleas.
Monitor the environment for several weeks. Re‑vacuum high‑traffic zones every few days, and repeat a spot treatment if live fleas are observed. If infestation persists after two treatment cycles, consult a professional pest‑control service for a more intensive approach.