Getting rid of fleas is daunting. There is no doubt about it. It feels like trying to shake off an unwanted but persistent guest. They're exasperating, tenacious and tough to eliminate. But not to worry! With a few significant steps, you can clear out your home and send those fleas packing. Let's explore some practical ways of how to get rid of fleas in house.
Treat All Pets for Fleas
The initial step is taking care of fleas if you have pets. This stage is extremely important. Fleas are fond of your furry companions, and unless you treat your pets, you will continue to face the issue.
Consider it in this manner: if someone continuously brings their bothersome friend to your gathering, you must address the friend directly. Start with a vet-recommended flea treatment. When choosing a topical solution, oral medication or a flea collar, make sure to keep your pets safe. Frequent use of flea shampoo during baths can also be beneficial, ensuring that products specifically made for animals are utilized.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends checking their fur coat thoroughly for any external parasite such as fleas or ticks every time you brush them.
Crank Up the Vacuum Cleaner
Next up, get your vacuum cleaner. Carpets and rugs are the preferred hiding spots for fleas and their eggs. Upholstery is also a very common place. Vacuuming is effective at removing adult fleas as well as the eggs and larvae they may be hiding.
Your vacuum cleaner will work like a tiny hurricane for fleas. Hit all the spots: under the furniture, along baseboards, and especially areas where your pets hang out. Don't forget to empty the vacuum bag or canister outside; you don't want those fleas finding their way back inside.
Wash Pet Bedding
Your pets’ favorite napping spots are flea central. Collect all the bedding, blankets, and toys that are washable. Put them in the washing machine on the highest possible temperature setting. Fleas cannot withstand high temperatures, therefore, washing and drying thoroughly should be effective. If your pet's bed doesn't fit in the washer, thoroughly vacuum it. Think about using a flea spray that's safe for pets. Frequent cleaning of these belongings is essential in managing the flea populace.
Hire a Steam Cleaner
A steam cleaner can make a significant difference in dealing with difficult areas and persistent infestations. The elevated temperatures during steam cleaning have the ability to eliminate fleas at every point of their development.
Steam cleaners can be rented or hire a professional service for your carpets, upholstery and drapes. It also sanitizes everything so your home will be cleaner and free of fleas.
According to PetMD, in some cases even steam cleaning might not be enough and a full chemical treatment is the need of the hour.
Consider Your Yard
If your pets go outside, your yard could be a flea playground. Treating your yard is just as important as flea treatment for house.
Concentrate on shady, damp locations as fleas are attracted to these areas.
Make sure to cut your grass frequently, prune bushes, and clear away any clutter.
You have the option to utilize a flea yard spray or natural alternatives like diatomaceous earth.
Keep your outdoor areas clean and dry to make them less appealing to fleas.
Use Home Remedies
Now, let's talk home remedies. These can be amazing for a little extra punch in your flea-fighting labors. They’re easy and affordable. You probably already have the ingredients in your pantry anyways.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a handy little tool in the fight against fleas. Spread it liberally over your carpets and furniture, and then utilize a firm brush to massage it into the fibers. Allow it to rest before using a vacuum to remove it.
The powder is known for drying out fleas alongside their eggs. This way you can simply vacuum them up. It is the easiest and safest way to a flea-free home.
Sprinkle Salt
Salt works similarly to baking soda. It's a natural desiccant so it dries out fleas and their eggs. Scattering it on your carpet and letting it sit for a couple of days before vacuuming is the best.
Imagine you're creating a tiny flea desert right in your carpet. The salt dehydrates them, helping to reduce their numbers.
Lemon Spray
Spraying lemon is also an effective home remedy to get rid of fleas in house. It is secure, organic, and also has a pleasant aroma. To create it, thinly slice a lemon, include it in a pint of water, and heat until boiling. Allow the blend to rest overnight before transferring it to a spray container. You have your flea spray for house.
Spray this solution on affected areas – but be careful with fabrics and materials that might stain. The citric acid in lemons is a natural flea deterrent. It’s like giving your home a fresh, flea-repelling scent.
Conclusion
How to get rid of fleas in house? It's not a quick task. It involves a combination of varied tactics and some level of perseverance. Take care of your pets and deep clean your house. Pay attention to your yard and try out some home remedies for fleas. It could take some time but by following these steps, you will eliminate fleas and prevent them from returning. Get the vacuum cleaner, prepare lemon spray and take charge!
