What to do if nothing helps to control fleas in an apartment? - briefly
If conventional methods are ineffective, engage a certified pest‑control service to administer a full‑scope, EPA‑approved insecticide treatment covering pets, bedding, carpets, and cracks. Follow with rigorous cleaning, daily vacuuming, and ongoing pet flea prevention to eliminate reinfestation.
What to do if nothing helps to control fleas in an apartment? - in detail
When conventional measures do not eradicate flea infestations in a dwelling, a systematic escalation is required. Begin by confirming that all pets have received a veterinarian‑approved treatment regimen, including adulticide and larvicide products. Verify that medication is applied consistently according to label instructions; missed doses often allow the population to rebound.
Next, address the environment. Conduct a thorough vacuuming of carpets, rugs, upholstery, and floor seams. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and place it in an outdoor trash container. Follow vacuuming with steam cleaning on any washable surfaces, as temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C) kill all life stages.
Laundry should be performed on the hottest safe setting. Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any removable fabric coverings, then dry them on high heat. For items that cannot be laundered, seal them in airtight bags for at least two weeks to starve developing larvae.
Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. IGRs prevent eggs and larvae from maturing, breaking the life cycle. Complement IGRs with a residual adulticide spray labeled for indoor use; focus on areas where fleas congregate—pet sleeping spots, furniture crevices, and near entry points.
If chemical treatments prove ineffective, consider non‑chemical alternatives. Deploy diatomaceous earth, food‑grade, in thin layers on carpets and upholstery; leave it for 48 hours before vacuuming. Use flea traps that combine heat and carbon dioxide to attract adult fleas, reducing the breeding pool.
Inspect the building envelope for gaps that permit wildlife or stray animals to enter, as these can reintroduce fleas. Seal cracks, install door sweeps, and repair damaged screens.
When the infestation persists despite these interventions, enlist a licensed pest‑management professional. Request a comprehensive plan that includes:
- Inspection of hidden habitats (wall voids, crawl spaces)
- Targeted application of professional‑grade adulticides and IGRs
- Post‑treatment monitoring and follow‑up visits
Professional services may also employ foggers or heat treatments not available to consumers, ensuring penetration into inaccessible zones.
Finally, maintain a preventive schedule: treat pets regularly, vacuum weekly, wash bedding monthly, and reapply IGRs according to manufacturer timelines. Consistent vigilance prevents reestablishment after an eradication effort.