How to Get Rid of Fleas in the House?
Fleas (Siphonaptera) are small insects (measuring between one and eight millimeters) that act as external parasites of various animals that live in the home, from which they absorb blood, which is why they are hematophagous.
With a brown body covered in bristles, they can make great leaps, allowing them to move from one host to another. This is thanks to their muscular legs, adapted for jumping.
The problem with fleas is that their bites cause irritation and can also transmit microbial and parasitic diseases.
Therefore, this infestation must be eliminated, and in addition to various chemical products, there are home remedies for doing so. Here are some of these solutions to remove them from your beloved pet’s fur.
How to get rid of fleas in your home with home remedies
In the sometimes annual struggle against fleas, here are 6 tips to keep in mind when fighting them.
1. Apple cider vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Terrible for fleas due to its smell and acidity. Photo: iStock.
Its strong odor and acidity are very unpleasant for fleas, which it repels. To use it, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to infested areas, such as carpets, furniture, and pet beds.
Repeat this process daily until the fleas disappear.
2. Sodium bicarbonate
Safe to use around pets and children, it effectively dehydrates these small insects: fleas.
Sprinkle it on carpets and furniture, and let it sit for several hours. Vacuum it up and repeat the process until all the fleas and their eggs are gone.
3. Essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, mint and tea tree)
They have repellent properties that can help keep fleas at bay. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas prone to infestation, such as pet beds and dark corners of the house.
Dilute the essential oil well to avoid any adverse reactions in pets or sensitive people.
4. Hygiene
To prevent and combat flea infestations, keeping your home clean is essential. This includes vacuuming regularly, paying special attention to areas where pets spend the most time.
Wash pet bedding and other items in hot water to kill fleas and eggs. In addition, brush pets regularly and bathe them with flea shampoo.
5. Homemade traps
Place shallow dishes filled with water and a few drops of liquid detergent in areas where fleas are most active, such as near pet beds or in the corners of rooms.
The light from a lamp placed near the dish will attract the fleas, and the detergent will break the surface tension of the water, causing them to drown.
6. Diatomaceous earth
This natural powder made from the remains of microscopic algae can be deadly to fleas, but safe for humans and pets.
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on carpets, floors, and infested areas, and let it sit for a couple of days before vacuuming it up.
Keep your pet protected against fleas: By far, the best way to help prevent flea infestations is to keep your pet protected against these parasites with a regular preventative treatment. Be sure to explore the different treatment options available so you can keep your pet safe from fleas. After all, sticking to a regular treatment plan is much less trouble than trying to get fleas out of your home.