If you have a pet, vacuum anywhere it has access. For example, if a cat likes to climb and hide on a bookshelf, vacuum the shelves. [4] X Expert Source Luke LewisPest Management Expert Expert Interview. 21 June April 2022. Try to vacuum at least once daily while you actively have fleas so you can control them the best. As soon as you finish vacuuming, remove the bag and throw it away outside to prevent any fleas from escaping.
Test your steamer on a small section of carpeting or upholstery to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
If you have a pet, wash their bedding and any stuffed toys they play with as well. [9] X Expert Source Kevin CarrilloPest Control Specialist Expert Interview. 5 November 2019.
IGRs affect young fleas so they don’t fully mature, which causes them to die off quickly. They usually last around 2–6 months. IGRs are safe to use around pets and children.
Instead of a lamp, you can instead float a smaller dish in the water and set a lit tea light candle on it to attract fleas. You can also try commercial flea traps that have built-in lights or glue pads that trap fleas. [15] X Research source
Avoid using essential oils on or around your pets since they could be toxic and cause severe reactions. The essential oils are safe to use around children. Test the essential oils on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage to the surface. Essential oils may also work to repel fleas as well.
Diatomaceous earth works by cutting the flea’s exoskeleton and causing them to dehydrate.
The most common problem areas on pets include the back of the neck and the area around the base of the tail. [22] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Washing your pets also removes skin flakes and dried blood that young fleas feed on, so it’s a good preventative measure. Try to wash your pet at least once a week while you have fleas in your home. [25] X Expert Source Kevin CarrilloPest Control Specialist Expert Interview. 5 November 2019.
Most commonly, you’ll get a “spot-on” treatment where you apply a topical medication to the back of your pet’s neck so they aren’t able to reach or lick it. Try to keep your pet separate from other animals and in a single room so it doesn’t spread fleas around your home.
Wear tall white socks when you’re treating your yard. When fleas jump out of the grass, they’ll land on your socks so you can easily see and remove them without getting bitten. [30] X Research source
IGRs work to get rid of and prevent fleas for up to 6 months.
