Every pet owner should know how to get rid of fleas in the house. These insects don’t just get on pets and furniture; they can also get on people too. The following information will show you how to systemically eliminate these pests.
Destroy the Flea Eggs
Get rid of the eggs, as these will mature and turn into fleas. They are usually found on the pet beds, carpets, rugs and clothing. They look a bit like salt and pepper combined. If your pet goes into your car, check the seats also. Get every item that the pet or person with fleas has come into contact with. Wash it with soap and water.
Vacuum the House
After washing the items, get your vacuum cleaner and vacuum the house. Start on the upholstered furniture, bare floors, cracks in the floor and carpets.
Vacuum every part of the house where dust can settle in. Dispose of the vacuum cleaner bags. If some insects remain on the carpet after you vacuum, wash it. A carpet shampoo will usually be sufficient.
Tip: if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, wash the area it sleeps in with soap and water.
How to Get Rid of Fleas on People
People with fleas should bathe twice daily with soap. Use insecticidal shampoos only if the insects are not removed by showering. You can also use flea combs to move the insects away from their hiding place. When the comb picks up the fleas, dispose of them in a soapy water mixture.
You can also wear flannel “booties” over shoes. The insects will be caught here and disposed of. This should also be worn if you are going to a flea infested place.
How to Keep Your Pet Flea Free
There are anti-flea treatment products available in many stores. Make sure to apply flea treatments that are meant for the animal. Anti-flea treatment for dogs and cats are not interchangeable. Wash your pet with water and soap.
If there are many fleas, use a flea shampoo for your pet. Avoid using shampoos with DEET (diethyltoluamide). Some pets are allergic to it. You can also use a flea comb to remove these insects.
Flea Control
After cleaning the house as described earlier, make sure the fleas don’t come back. Allow your pet to roam only in easy to clean places. Clean the pet bedding regularly. Make it a point to wash your pet’s toys and accessories regularly. If there are flea eggs on the bedding, be careful they don’t spill over when you pick them up.
Soapy water must be used to clean up any area outdoors your pet frequents. Do this even if you can’t see fleas anymore. Sometimes the fleas will come back if you don’t clean your house on a consistent basis.
Only in extreme cases will a professional flea exterminator have to be called in. Most of the time, these methods to get rid of fleas in the house will work. With regular maintenance, you no longer have to worry about these insects infesting your home.
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