14 Fast & Easy Ways to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home

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Pest control experts share how to eliminate fleas in a flash
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Fleas are some of the smallest pests, but they’re a huge nuisance once they get into your home. These tiny creatures are experts at hiding on your pets, in your carpets, or even in your furniture. Luckily, we’re here to help you get on top of the problem. We talked to pest control specialists to find out exactly what you need to do to get rid of fleas in your home— fast !

6 Steps to Getting Rid of Fleas Fast

  1. Vacuum your whole house daily and wash any bedding that your pet touches.
  2. Regularly steam-clean carpets and other soft surfaces.
  3. Flea-comb your pet daily.
  4. Wash your pet weekly with flea shampoo.
  5. Give your pet a flea medication recommended by your vet.
  6. Treat outside areas with preventive sprays to keep fleas from coming back in.
1

Vacuum every day.

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  1. “The fastest way to get rid of a flea infestation is to vacuum every day,” says pest control specialist Chris Parker. He advises to especially focus on areas where your pet sleeps. “Repeat this every day for at least two weeks. New flea eggs may hatch during this time, and regular cleaning can help disrupt their life cycle.” [1]
    • “Use a narrow hose or brush attachment to get into any crevices,” adds pest control specialist Kevin Carrillo, MMPC. Vacuum hard and soft surfaces, including rugs, baseboards, the cracks between floors, curtains, couch cushions and upholstery, and underneath furniture. “Clean out the litter box if you have one, too,” he adds. [2]
    • Spend extra time cleaning any areas where you can see “flea dust,” which are small black specks of flea waste.
    • As soon as you finish vacuuming, pest control specialist Scott McCombe recommends throwing the vacuum bag away outside to prevent any fleas from escaping. If you have a canister vacuum, empty the canister into a trash bag outside, then seal the bag and throw it away. [3]
    EXPERT TIP

    Chris Parker

    Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control
    Chris Parker is the Founder of Parker Eco Pest Control, a sustainable pest control service in Seattle, Washington. Since 2016, Chris has been specializing in Integrated Pest Management and doesn’t use any chemicals for pest removal. He offers removal services for ants, rodents, fleas, spiders, wasps, and more. Chris is a certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator in Washington State and received his bachelor’s from the University of Washington.
    Chris Parker
    Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control

    Vacuuming can trigger flea eggs to hatch. Flea eggs are activated by warmth and vibration. Vacuuming will often trigger a large hatching of the pupa, which can speed up any flea treatment process.

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2

Wash all bedding in hot water.

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  1. Parker says, “Strip all of your bedding, and wash anything soft that your pets might touch, including pet toys.” [4] Run them on the hottest heat setting with your regular detergent. Be sure to wash any removable upholstery covers, as well. Repeat this at least once a week to help prevent reinfestation. [5]
3

Steam-clean carpets and furniture.

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  1. Carrillo says, “Kill fleas by using a steam cleaner on your carpet and any fabric or upholstered items.” Run the steamer over any areas where your pets have access or where you notice flea dust. The heat from your steamer gets rid of any flea eggs and larvae deep in the fibers that vacuums might not reach. Carrillo adds, “To get the best results, clean very thoroughly and repeat the process frequently.” [8]
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4

Set up flea traps to manually remove fleas.

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  1. Fill a shallow dish with some soapy water and set it underneath a lamp with an incandescent bulb. The fleas will get attracted to the heat and light, so they’ll jump in the soapy water and drown. [10]
    • Instead of a lamp, you can float a smaller dish in the water and set a lit tea light candle on it to attract fleas—but don’t leave the candle unattended.
    • You can also try commercial flea traps that have built-in lights or glue pads that trap fleas.
5

Sprinkle diatomaceous earth to kill fleas naturally.

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  1. “If you have wall-to-wall carpets, vacuuming might not be enough,” says Parker. “Try sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth onto your carpets, upholstered furniture, bed skirts, and anywhere your pet sleeps. Leave it down for about a week, then vacuum it up. If you keep doing that for several weeks, you can usually get rid of fleas yourself.” [11]
    • “Diatomaceous earth is an algae-based product,” Parker explains. “It’s a very sharp powder, and it dries out the fleas’ exoskeletons. It’s organic and completely safe—but it is dusty,” he adds. [12] Consider wearing a mask when you apply it, especially if you have breathing problems like asthma.
    • If you have access to a shop-vac, consider using that instead of your household vacuum. Powders like diatomaceous earth can clog the motor on some vacuums.
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6

Apply essential oils to kill or repel fleas.

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  1. Cinnamon and clove basil are the most effective natural remedies for getting rid of fleas , but lemon, lavender, and cedar may also work. Just apply a few drops of undiluted essential oil near problem areas and the fleas will die when they come into contact with it, or they may help discourage them from lingering in the area. [13]
    • You can also buy specially-formulated insecticides like Essentria that are made with essential oils, says Parker. “But don’t put it on your pet,” he cautions. “Essential oils can be toxic to animals.” [14]
    • Test the essential oils on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage to the surface.
7

Use insecticide if manual removal doesn’t work.

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  1. Sprays and foggers can kill adult fleas and larvae. “Choose a pesticide labeled for indoor flea control that contains a residual adulticide with a growth regulator (IGR),” says McCombe. Apply this to the surface of your floor to kill fleas.” [15] Adulticides kill adult fleas, and IGRs affect young fleas so they don’t fully mature, which causes them to die off quickly. They usually last around 2–6 months. [16]
    • Opt for aerosol sprays for more precise application. “Aerosol sprays allow you to direct the pesticide under beds and other furniture and into cracks and crevices that foggers may be able to reach,” says pest management expert Luke Lewis. [17] Hold the spray about 18 in (46 cm) from the ground and apply it evenly back and forth. Common problem spots to focus on in your home include corners, baseboard seams, as well as behind and underneath furniture.
    • Try flea bombs for a whole-home treatment. “Flea bombs are aerosol products that you set off in your space,” explains Dr. Lioy-Ryan. “With most products, you’ll need to get all living things out of your house and leave for several hours, although there are some products, like Knockout, that don’t require you to leave.” [18]
    EXPERT TIP

    Kevin Carrillo

    Pest Control Specialist, MMPC
    Kevin Carrillo is a Pest Control Specialist and the Senior Project Manager for MMPC, a pest control service and certified Minority-owned Business Enterprise (MBE) based in the New York City area. MMPC is certified by the industry’s leading codes and practices, including the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), QualityPro, GreenPro, and The New York Pest Management Association (NYPMA). MMPC's work has been featured in CNN, NPR, and ABC News.
    Kevin Carrillo
    Pest Control Specialist, MMPC

    Carefully read the label before using any pesticide. Some flea bombs are petroleum-based. If you set them off near a kitchen with a pilot light, it could ignite and start a fire in your home.

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8

Comb your pet with a flea comb.

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  1. Carrillo recommends regular flea combing until your home is free of fleas. [19] Use a comb specifically made to get rid of fleas. Start at the base of your pet’s fur, then slowly run the comb all the way to the tip of the fur. Check the teeth, and if you see any black fleas on the comb, dip the teeth in a bowl of soapy water to remove them. [20]
    • The soapy water will drown the fleas, ensuring they don’t hop out of the water and back onto your pet.
    • Especially focus on common problem areas like the back of your pet’s neck and the area around the base of their tail.
9

Bathe your pets with warm, soapy water.

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  1. You can use any standard pet shampoo, but you can also buy specially formulated flea shampoo . “The medication in these shampoos is usually an enzyme that breaks down fleas’ cytoskeletons with mild insecticides,” Lewis explains. [21] Get your pet in the tub and rinse them with some warm water before working the shampoo deep into their fur. Try to work it all the way down to the skin to get rid of the most fleas.
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10

Ask your vet to recommend a flea treatment for your pet.

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  1. If your pet has fleas, Parker says, “take them to the vet and get them on some flea medication.” [24] Your vet may prescribe or recommend an oral or topical medication that helps get rid of fleas and prevents larvae from growing. Follow your vet’s instructions to ensure you eliminate all of the fleas.
    • Most commonly, you’ll get a “spot-on” treatment where you apply a topical medication to the back of your pet’s neck so they aren’t able to reach or lick it.
    • “Fleas have developed a resistance to some flea medications,” says Dr. Lioy-Ryan. [25] Your vet can recommend products that are still effective in your area.
    • Check with your vet before you use any over-the-counter treatments like topicals, sprays, or flea collars.
    • Consider quarantining your pet in a single room while you treat the fleas. This can help contain the infestation to a single area.
11

Keep your lawn mowed and clear of debris.

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  1. Parker says, “To help prevent fleas in your yard, keep your grass trimmed short.” [26] Also, rake any lawn clippings from the surface of your grass, and clear away any debris, like limbs or lawn toys. Fleas prefer to live in shady, humid areas, so clearing your yard may make it too warm and sunny for them to thrive.
    • Also, check for cracks around your windows and doors. If you see any, seal them up to make it harder for fleas to enter your home.
    • Wear tall white socks when you’re treating your yard to prevent flea bites . When fleas jump out of the grass, they’ll land on your socks so you can easily see and remove them without getting bitten. [27]
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12

Apply a chemical treatment to problem areas outside.

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  1. To control fleas outdoors, pest control specialist Chikezie Onyianta suggests, “Broadcast spray your yard with bifenthrin or another product with an insect growth regulator. Connect the sprayer to your hose, then treat your entire yard. This will help break their life cycle so they can’t reproduce, which will help control the population.” [28]
    • “You may have to repeat this every 2–3 weeks for a serious infestation,” adds Onyianta. “For milder cases, once a month or every other month is probably fine.” [29]
    • Especially target areas where your pet likes to go, as well as along fences, under decks, and next to your home’s foundation, should do the trick. [30]
    • IGRs work to get rid of and prevent fleas for up to 6 months.
13

Try nematodes for an all-natural outdoor flea solution.

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  1. Nematodes are small worms that feed on flea larvae. Water your lawn thoroughly, then apply beneficial nematodes to the soil. As the nematodes prey on the flea larvae, they will help break the fleas’ life cycle, eventually limiting the infestation. [31]
    • Nematodes probably aren’t as effective as pesticides for controlling fleas, but they may help if you’re trying to avoid using chemicals to treat the problem. [32]
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14

Call an exterminator for a heavy infestation.

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  1. If you’re having trouble managing the fleas in your home, reach out to a professional service. They’ll be able to determine the size and source of your flea problem and use some more intense chemicals to help get rid of them. [33]

How Do You Get Rid Of Fleas In The House?


Join the Discussion...

How do I get rid of fleas for good?
WikiPandaTamer982
WikiPandaTamer982
I'm mortified to be here asking this but I'm desperate at this point: I have fleas in my house and I dont' know how to get rid of them. They seem to really like my dog (mostly indoor dog but we use flea and tick meds) and the couch. I wouldn't say it's an infestation just yet, but it's been like this for months and nothing I do is keeping them away! What should I do/what am I doing wrong?
Chris Parker
Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control
I highly recommend taking your pet to the vet if you suspect fleas in the home. That's always the first step. The next step is to wash all of the pet's bedding and make sure you're using high heat for at least an hour on a dry cycle to get rid of any eggs or larva that might still be in there. Vacuum your home frequently, as well.
David Schmucker
Dog Trainer
Make sure you're using the right flea medication for your dog's breed and size first to kill all live fleas and eggs. Then, use a flea comb to remove the fleas and eggs from their fur. If you don't do the treatment first, the flea just jumps off the comb and lands somewhere else, so combing alone won't be effective.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How effective is fogging for fleas?
    Luke Lewis
    Pest Management Expert
    Luke Lewis is a Pest Management Expert and the Founder and President of Native Pest Management. Luke has led his company for over 7 years and specializes in pet-friendly and eco-friendly pest control, termite control, and lawn care. Native Pest Management was named as one of Inc. Magazine’s 5000 fastest growing companies in America. Luke holds both BS and MS degrees from the University of Florida and is a graduate of UF's Pest Management University.
    Luke Lewis
    Pest Management Expert
    Expert Answer
    Not that effective. Aerosol insecticide sprays are recommended instead of foggers, which will allow you to direct sprays under beds and other furniture and cracks and crevices that foggers may be unable to reach.
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      Tips

      • It may take up to 2 weeks to completely get rid of all the fleas in your home, so stay persistent with your treatment! [34]
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      Warnings

      • Always read the warning labels on any insecticides you use in case they aren’t safe around pets or children. [35]
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      • If you can’t easily wash pet bedding or toys that have been infested with fleas, throw them away as soon as you can. [36]
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      • Flea bites usually only cause itching and slight swelling and do not need medical attention. However, if you develop hives, shortness of breath, dizziness, or weakness, it could be a sign of a more serious allergic reaction or infection. Contact your doctor to find out if you need any further treatment. [37]
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      References

      1. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 Feb 2021.
      2. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist, MMPC. Expert Interview. 5 Nov 2019.
      3. ↑ Scott McCombe. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 Nov 2019.
      4. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 Feb 2021.
      5. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21718-flea-bites
      6. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 14 May 2024.
      7. ↑ Daniel Lioy-Ryan, PhD. Animal Behaviorist. Expert Interview. 17 Aug 2021.
      8. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist, MMPC. Expert Interview. 5 Nov 2019.
      9. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist, MMPC. Expert Interview. 5 Nov 2019.
      1. ↑ https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1103
      2. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 Feb 2021.
      3. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 Feb 2021.
      4. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7600267/
      5. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 Mar 2023.
      6. ↑ Scott McCombe. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 19 Nov 2019.
      7. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef602
      8. ↑ Luke Lewis. Pest Management Expert. Expert Interview. 1 Jul 2022.
      9. ↑ Daniel Lioy-Ryan, PhD. Animal Behaviorist. Expert Interview. 17 Aug 2021.
      10. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist, MMPC. Expert Interview. 5 Nov 2019.
      11. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21718-flea-bites
      12. ↑ Luke Lewis. Pest Management Expert. Expert Interview. 21 June April 2022.
      13. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 5 November 2019.
      14. ↑ Kevin Carrillo. Pest Control Specialist, MMPC. Expert Interview. 5 Nov 2019.
      15. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 Mar 2023.
      16. ↑ Daniel Lioy-Ryan, PhD. Animal Behaviorist. Expert Interview. 17 Aug 2021.
      17. ↑ Chris Parker. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 18 Feb 2021.
      18. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef602
      19. ↑ Chikezie Onyianta. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 Apr 2021.
      20. ↑ Chikezie Onyianta. Pest Control Specialist. Expert Interview. 1 Apr 2021.
      21. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef602
      22. ↑ https://www.pesticide.org/fleas
      23. ↑ https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/insects/controlling-fleas/
      24. ↑ https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/tips-on-selecting-pest-control-services
      25. ↑ https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7380
      26. ↑ https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7380
      27. ↑ https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7380
      28. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21718-flea-bites

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