Are you spotting pesky little pests in your home? Fleas multiply rapidly. Eliminating fleas from your house without harsh chemicals is entirely achievable with persistent effort and natural methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide utilizing safer, more eco-friendly techniques to get rid of fleas.
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1. Deep Clean Regularly
Fleas lay eggs everywhere including on carpets, furniture, and cracks in flooring. When you start your cleaning routine, keep this in mind. Key areas to focus on to remove fleas are:
- Vacuum: Use your vacuum to go over all your carpets, throw rugs, furniture, and along baseboards. Use a vacuum with strong suction and a HEPA filter.
- Dispose: Immediately throw your vacuum bag or your empty canisters outside after each use.
- Wash: Gather your pet bedding, throws, and linens and wash in hot water weekly. If you notice a large amount of fleas, wash everything more than once a week.
2. Use a Natural Flea Killer
One of the easiest and less expensive natural flea preventative is a mixture of baking soda and salt.
- Mix equal parts and sprinkle on carpets and fabric surfaces. For example, use a pail to mix 2 cups of salt with 2 cups of baking soda.
- Leave for 24–48 hours before vacuuming.
- The mixture helps dehydrate and kill flea eggs and larvae.
3. Natural Flea Traps
- Fill shallow bowls with soapy water (Dawn dish soap works well).
- Place them under a nightlight or small lamp overnight.
- Fleas are attracted to warmth and jump into the water, where they drown.
4. Essential Oils (Pet-Safe Use Only)
Some oils repel fleas, but use caution around pets, especially cats. Keep your pets away from treated areas or use pet-friendly alternatives.
- Mix 2–3 drops of lavender, cedarwood, or lemon oil with water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist carpets and upholstery (keep pets out of the room until dry).
- Do not apply directly to pets unless approved by a vet.
5. Pet Treatment (Natural Options)
- Bathe pets in a mild Dawn dish soap solution to kill live fleas.
- Use a flea comb to remove fleas and eggs from fur daily.
- Try a DIY apple cider vinegar spray (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) on your pet’s coat if tolerated.
6. Yard Maintenance
- Keep grass trimmed short.
- Remove leaf litter or organic debris.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in shady, moist spots where fleas thrive.
Unfortunately, ridding your home of fleas may take time. Consistency is key. Flea eggs hatch every few days, so continue this routine for at least 3–4 weeks.