5-step plan for getting rid of fleas
Got a flea pest control issue at your home? Our pest controllers have fast and effective solutions at their fingertips. This type of pest problem is common in domestic residences, especially in homes with pets like cats and dogs.
Fleas are often a persistent and frustrating problem for homeowners, as they invade everywhere from carpets and furniture to pet hair. However, with expert help, it’s possible to get rid of fleas for good. Follow our 5-step plan for eradicating fleas.
Identify a flea infestation
Knowing the signs of fleas in the home is the first key step to getting rid of them for good, meaning you can act fast if an infestation occurs. Typical things to look out for include your pets scratching themselves, small flea bites on your skin (appearing in groups of 3 to 4 red bumps) and flea dirt (small brown flecks) left on home furnishings. Fleas are only about 1mm in size, but they can be spotted if you look closely enough. Flea eggs often get mistaken for pet dander as they are white specks around 0.5mm.
Use vet-approved flea treatments for pets
Fleas often enter properties via our pets, but you can buy special shampoos for their fur to help kill any pests clinging on. Always ask your vet for advice if you’re unsure what to use. You should also wash their bedding and toys at hot temperatures, but standard cleaning methods (like hoovering) may prove insufficient due to the complex life cycle of fleas and their eggs.
Book a pest control visit
Because your average home cleaning methods won’t completely remove fleas, requesting a professional pest control visit is key. They’ll have accurate diagnostic tools, expert knowledge and the perfect treatments for both adult fleas and their hidden eggs. While there are DIY treatments on the market, fleas can come back if you don’t target the right areas or use advanced methods.
Apply the best flea treatments
Your flea controller will advise on the best course of treatment to eradicate these pests. This could be a heat treatment, which ensures same-day removal and immediate relief from the issue. Chemical treatments are also an option, using spraying or fogging in the affected areas. This removes active fleas during the treatment while targeting any new fleas as they emerge from hatched eggs.
Prevent further flea control issues
Flea problems can recur if they get reintroduced to your home (e.g. via pets again) or if you haven’t used sufficient methods to remove all active fleas and their tiny eggs. To help prevent fleas in the future, groom your pets regularly, inspect pet fur for signs of eggs, and thoroughly clean any second-hand items (like rugs and clothing) before bringing them into your home. If you spot a flea issue, isolate the affected area and call an expert before it spreads.
Get a free flea removal quote
Effective Pest Solutions targets fleas in homes and workplaces across the South East, coming out to Earlsfield, East Grinstead and beyond. For a free quote, contact our pest control team.
