Where do fleas appear in a new house? - briefly
Fleas usually appear in carpeted areas, upholstered furniture, pet bedding, and cracks or gaps in flooring and baseboards. They can also be found under rugs, behind furniture, and in pet crates.
Where do fleas appear in a new house? - in detail
Fleas typically establish themselves in the most sheltered, warm, and humid micro‑environments of a recently occupied residence. The most common zones include:
- Carpets and area rugs, especially those near entryways or pet sleeping spots.
- Upholstered furniture, where gaps between padding and fabric retain moisture.
- Pet bedding, crates, carriers, and any fabric accessories used by animals.
- Baseboards, wall cracks, and floor‑board seams that stay dark and undisturbed.
- Underneath and behind furniture, where airflow is limited and temperature remains stable.
- Curtains, drapes, and other hanging textiles that are rarely moved.
- HVAC filters and ducts, which can transport adult fleas and eggs throughout the home.
Flea eggs and larvae require darkness and a relative humidity of 70‑80 %. Consequently, they thrive in the layers of carpet pile, the fibers of pet blankets, and the soil or debris that accumulates in floor‑board gaps. Adult fleas seek host contact, so they are frequently found on pets, but they also linger on human clothing and shoes that have been in contact with infested areas.
Inspection should focus on:
- Lifting carpets and examining the backing for tiny specks of feces (dark sand‑like particles).
- Removing pillowcases, cushion covers, and pet blankets for washing at 60 °C or higher.
- Vacuuming all floor surfaces, upholstery, and crevices, then disposing of the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately.
- Checking HVAC vents and replacing filters regularly.
By targeting these specific locations, a comprehensive assessment of flea presence in a newly settled home can be achieved, enabling effective control measures.