Could you have fleas in your house? It might be more likely than you think. These tiny, biting parasites are hard to spot, but they’re very common, especially among people who have pets. If you’ve noticed itchy bites on your legs and ankles, or if your pets seem to be scratching more than usual, fleas could be the culprit. These seven flea control tips can help you get rid of the pests and keep them away for good.
1. Use a flea comb on your pets regularly.
If your dog or cat regularly goes outside, they could pick up fleas from wild animals. Prevent your furry friends from bringing the pests inside by running a flea comb through their fur before they come in.
2. Keep your house clean.
Any home can get fleas, no matter how clean it is. But the more often you clean, the less hospitable your house will be to the critters. Fleas like to hide in carpets, so vacuum once or twice a week, and wash your bedding and furniture covers in hot water every week or so.
3. Use diatomaceous earth.
Diatomaceous earth – a powder made out of fossilized algae – is a common and effective tool for getting rid of pests like fleas. Look for food-grade diatomaceous earth at a health food store or a home improvement store. Sprinkle a little bit all over your carpets, and let it sit there for 24 hours. Then vacuum it up. Make sure to empty your vacuum outside your house.
4. Get rid of fleas with a sprinkle of salt.
If you can’t find diatomaceous earth (or you need a quicker solution), salt will work almost as well. Sprinkle salt on any carpets where you suspect fleas are living. Try to work the salt into the fibers of the carpet, instead of letting it just sit on top. The next day, vacuum your carpets well and empty your vacuum cleaner outside.
5. Make a natural anti-flea spray.
A simple spray made of vinegar and water will repel fleas. Make it even more effective (and better-smelling) by adding some lemon juice, eucalyptus oil, or lavender oil to the spray bottle.
6. Set a trap for fleas.
Mix water and dish soap on a plate or in a shallow bowl, and set it in a room where you suspect fleas are living. Leave it there overnight. In the morning, you’ll find fleas stuck in the mixture. Empty the bowl outside and repeat until the fleas are gone.
7. Call a professional.
If your home solutions don’t seem to be working, don’t let your flea problem get even more out of control. Call a professional for help. A flea control specialist can help you get rid of fleas once and for all.
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