What to do if there are fleas in the apartment? - briefly
Vacuum all floors and upholstery thoroughly, wash bedding and pet linens in hot water, and treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea preventative while applying a labeled indoor insecticide. Repeat cleaning and treatment after a week to interrupt the flea life cycle.
What to do if there are fleas in the apartment? - in detail
If fleas appear in a residence, immediate action prevents a rapid infestation. Begin by isolating the source: inspect pets, bedding, and upholstered furniture for adult insects and larvae. Treat animals with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product—topical spot‑on treatment, oral medication, or a flea collar—ensuring the entire household receives consistent dosing for at least two weeks.
Next, remove all washable items. Launder sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and pet bedding in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. For non‑washable fabrics, place them in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours; the lack of oxygen will kill most stages.
Thoroughly vacuum every carpet, rug, and floor surface. Focus on edges, under furniture, and pet sleeping areas. After each pass, discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and dispose of it outside the building. Follow vacuuming with a targeted insecticide spray designed for indoor use, applying to cracks, baseboards, and the undersides of furniture. Use a product that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene to interrupt the life cycle.
Treat all pet habitats. Apply a flea powder or spray to pet crates, carriers, and any indoor kennels. Replace or wash pet mats and toys, and consider using a flea‑comb daily for two weeks to remove any remaining insects.
Seal entry points that may allow external fleas to enter: repair torn screens, close gaps around doors, and use door sweeps. Maintain low indoor humidity (below 50 %) and keep temperatures moderate; fleas thrive in warm, humid conditions.
Finally, monitor progress. Place sticky flea traps in high‑traffic zones for a week; a decline in captured insects indicates effective control. Repeat vacuuming and insecticide application weekly for three weeks, then monthly as a preventive measure. If the problem persists beyond this schedule, consult a professional pest‑management service for a comprehensive treatment plan.