Killing Fleas: How to Effectively Eliminate Fleas from Your Home

Fleas are small, agile, and persistent; making them difficult to get rid of. Fleas feed off of the blood from warm-blooded animals, so humans and their pets are the main transport for fleas in the home. Flea infestations can become severe, placing members of the household in danger for potential bites and skin irritation. Here’s how to effectively eliminate fleas from your home.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming is an effective first step of flea elimination. Vacuum all furniture, carpets and any other areas that can potentially hold flea eggs or larvae. Doing this twice a week is an important part of preventing reinfestations by sucking up the flea eggs and larvae before they can mature and lay more eggs.

Using Insecticides

Insecticides are a common go-to method of flea elimination. This is best used after vacuuming first, as it will make sure all eggs and larvae are in the vacuum, while the insecticide will kill the adult fleas. It is important to choose a flea-specific insecticide as to not harm any humans or pets. You can also purchase an insecticide spray specifically designed for fleas, which will help make sure you don’t miss any spots.

Using Natural Remedies

If you do not want to use store-bought insecticides, there are several natural remedies that can effectively eliminate fleas. Sprinkling salt in the carpets and furniture will provide drying capabilities, which will kill both adults and larvae. Carpets and furniture can also be treated with diatomaceous earth, which is an organic powder that kills fleas through dehydration. Additionally, fleas can be eliminated naturally by laundering bedding, linens and clothing.

Fleas are a nuisance that can take over a household if left untreated. Vacuuming and using flea-specific insecticides are the most effective methods of flea elimination. Natural remedies can also be used for a chemical-free solution. With several methods, any homeowners can easily eliminate fleas from their home.