How to get rid of fleas in house naturally? 6+ Tips and flea home remedies.
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Finding out that your home is infested with fleas can be extremely unpleasant or even frightening. If you’re a bit too sensitive, the best thing you can do at this point is to remain as calm as possible and not freak out! We have some ideas for you that we hope will help you get rid of these annoying and health-threatening insects. Before you find out how to get rid of fleas in house naturally and prevent their appearance again, we will tell you a little bit about the reasons why they enter our homes!
How to get rid of fleas in house?
There are two ways these small insects can get into your home. The first one is, of course, through your pet’s fur. Fleas live in the ground, and considering that they can jump nearly 60 inches up, your pet is the easiest target. A much more likely way for fleas to appear in your house is through the basement. It is quite a favorable environment for their development. When the humidity level rises, fleas begin to breed at a high speed.
Fleas may be extremely dangerous to both pets and humans, and we don’t just mean the painful bites. These little creatures, just like mosquitoes, can transmit serious diseases such as typhus and salmonellosis. In order to protect yourself, you can rub lavender oil on your skin – it is a natural insect repellent.
You should know that fleas are very difficult to get rid of once they have settled in, so you have to be patient. You will need an action plan to get them out of the house, and we are here to help you with a few tips and easy home remedies.
Tips on how to act when you have fleas at home
If you find out there are fleas at your home, what is the right way to deal with the problem? You need to act in two aspects: treat your pet, and properly clean and disinfect the whole house.
1. Treat your pet
The very first thing you should do is to check your pet for fleas. You may not be able to see them, so check the skin for bites. Another sign is if your pet has been scratching itself more than usual. It’s a good idea to see a vet and ask for advice on how to treat your pet. The most common method is by using anti-flea shampoo and powder.
2. Wash your pet’s bed at high temperatures
Wash your pet’s bed at least once a week in hot water, as it will help get rid of any remaining eggs or larvae. This is a very important step in flea control, and you should keep doing it for three to eight weeks without interruption. The same goes for any other places your pet likes to sleep – your bed, for instance.
3. Vacuum the floor, carpets, rugs and sofas regularly
Continue vacuuming potential flea surfaces regularly, at least once every two days for eight weeks. Be sure to clean your vacuum filters and dispose of the trash after each use to prevent eggs from hatching inside, which can lead to future flea infestations.
Flea home remedies
Luckily, there are many effective ways to get fleas out of the house, using only natural products. All of them are safe and easily accessible. See our top suggestions on how to get rid of fleas in house below:
1. Vinegar, salt and baking soda
Salt and baking soda are used quite often in cleaning. In an empty spray bottle, add 2 cups/470 ml of water, add ¼ cup/60 ml apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup/4 tablespoons of salt and ¼ cup/4 tablespoons of baking soda. Spray all surfaces, walls, floors and upholstered furniture with the homemade solution. This is a great method for fighting fleas. However, it is important to know that you should not use it for bathing pets as it may irritate their skin even more.
2. Cedar wood shavings
Cedar shavings are an effective remedy for fleas in the house. Scatter them near your pet’s bed, inside the cabinets, or whenever you decide. Fleas can’t stand the smell of cedar and most probably will go away. If you cannot find cedar shavings, you can use cedar essential oil. Moisten cotton swabs and place them in the room, replace them with fresh ones from time to time.
3. Lemon spray
Lemons are another great home flea control method. Lemon peels contain an active ingredient that helps fight the uninvited guests. However, it is better to use the whole fruit to make your home remedy.
Instructions on how to prepare a lemon spray:
- Take three large lemons and cut them into slices.
- Put them in a saucepan and add 3 cups/700 ml of water.
- Bring to a boil and cook over medium heat for half an hour.
- Let it infuse overnight or for at least eight hours.
- Squeeze each slice and take all of them out.
- Strain the liquid and add 1.5 cups/350 ml of white vinegar.
- The lemon spray is ready!
4. Garlic and brewer’s yeast
Mix two or three tablespoons of brewer’s yeast with crushed garlic and distribute the mixture in small portions around the house. Keep in mind that the specific smell lingers for quite a long time.