Fleas are unbearable pests that sulk at our domestic companions. Apart from the discomfort they cause our animals, they can also cause allergies and cause itching in some family members. Fortunately, there are several ways to fight this invisible enemy. Discover in this article how you can get rid of fleas and protect your home from their presence.
Identification of flea eggs and pupae
To effectively control fleas, you must first identify where they are in your home. Fleas lay white eggs in carpets, on furniture and in pets. These eggs will give birth to larvae and pupae which will grow into adults. To prevent this population from growing, it is imperative to find all the eggs and pupae.
- Start by thoroughly inspecting your rugs and carpets.
- Carefully check the nooks and crannies of rooms like behind furniture and curtains.
- Carefully examine your pets’ coats and chests.
Use a vacuum cleaner and steam cleaner
Once you have located the flea eggs and pupae, you can move on to the next step: vacuuming and cleaning all infested areas. This will help remove their habitat and eliminate some of the larvae and pupae. It is important to use a suitable vacuum cleaner for better efficiency:
- Before you start, empty the bag or tank very often.
- Set the power level to maximum.
- After vacuuming, immediately discard the bag or canister.
- Don’t forget to clean the furniture and linens with a steam cleaner.
Caution: You may need to use an insecticide product to kill any remaining adult fleas.
Avoid returns
Another good way to fight fleas is to take certain steps to avoid recontamination. Here are some helpful tips:
- Wash pet blankets and pillows at high heat.
- Dry sensitive fabrics on low heat.
- Remove dirt from floors and furniture.
- Bathe your pets monthly.
- Inspect your pets frequently.
Finally, to prevent future infestations, install flea traps around your home. These devices capture fleas that enter your home to prevent infestations. Also, don’t forget to regularly treat your pets with flea products. The key to fighting fleas is vigilance and hygiene.
Fleas can be a very frustrating nuisance, but there are effective ways to get rid of them. Start by inspecting your home for flea eggs and pupae. Then get to work using a powerful vacuum and steam cleaner. Take steps to avoid recontamination and set up flea traps around your home to help keep pest numbers to a minimum. If you have any questions or concerns about fleas, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your veterinarian or pest control specialist.
