To get rid of fleas in your house fast, take a multi-step approach targeting both your pets and your living spaces[1]:
- Treat all pets for fleas: Start by using a veterinarian-approved flea treatment on all pets, including spot-on/tables/sprays/shampoos. Regular treatment is essential to prevent reinfestation[1].
- Vacuum thoroughly and frequently: Use a powerful vacuum on carpets, floors, upholstery, pet bedding, and in cracks and crevices. Empty the vacuum cleaner outside immediately after use to prevent fleas from escaping[1][3][7].
- Steam clean carpets and soft furnishings: Hire or use a steam cleaner on carpets, furniture, and pet beds. The combination of high heat and moisture kills fleas at all life stages[1][2][3].
- Wash all bedding and linens in hot, soapy water: Fleas and their eggs can hide in bedding, blankets, and soft furnishings. Wash these items at a high temperature and dry at the hottest setting possible[3][7].
- Use baking soda or salt: Sprinkle baking soda or salt onto carpets and furniture, then brush it into fibers. Leave overnight, then vacuum thoroughly to dehydrate and remove fleas and their eggs[1][2][5][7].
- Apply diatomaceous earth (with caution): Spread a very thin layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth on carpets and let it sit for 24-48 hours before vacuuming. It dehydrates fleas and flea eggs but can be irritating to lungs, so keep pets and people out of treated rooms during this time[2].
- Set a dish soap flea trap: Place shallow bowls with warm water and dish soap in problem areas overnight. Fleas are attracted to the light and jump into the soapy water, where they become trapped and die[2].
- Use natural sprays: Lemon spray, made from simmering sliced lemons in water and letting the mixture cool, can lightly mist carpets and upholstery. Apple cider vinegar is also reported to help repel fleas (careful on fabrics and pets’ skin)[2][4].
- Consider flea sprays: Use pet-safe, all-natural flea sprays on affected areas, reapplying every few days as needed[1].
- Consult a professional if the problem persists: If your flea infestation is severe or persistent, consult a veterinarian and/or a pest control expert for additional solutions[1][7].
Be sure to repeat cleaning efforts for several weeks, as flea eggs can survive and hatch later. Effective flea control always involves treating both your pet and your environment simultaneously[3].
References
- [1] Country Living: 9 effective ways to get rid of fleas in the house
- [2] JetPet Resort: 30 Ways to Kill Fleas Fast
- [3] Healthline: How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your House, in Your Yard, and More
- [4] Ellevet Sciences: 9 Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs
- [5] YouTube: 10 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Fleas
- [7] WebMD: Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home
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