What is a Flea?
Fleas are tiny parasites that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals. While many assume that fleas are only a problem that the family pet has to deal with, they can also bite humans and can transmit serious diseases, like the bubonic plague. You may have heard of all sorts of home remedies to get rid of fleas, such as applying salt or shampooing affected areas, but how effective are they really? In this blog we are putting myths to rest one fact at a time, based on some of the most common questions asked about flea control.
Question #1: “Does Table Salt on Carpets Kill Fleas?”
While salt may remove the moisture from some flea eggs or larvae on the surface level, it’s not an effective solution for an infestation. It’s not an effective method because it doesn’t kill adult fleas, which are usually the ones that bite. It also won’t reach deep into the carpet fibers or kill any of the fleas that are hiding in furniture, pet bedding, or baseboards.
Question #2: “Does Heat Kill Fleas?”
Yes, heat is effective at killing fleas and their eggs when you wash affected bedding, clothing, and pet items in hot water. However, heat alone often cannot reach all of the hidden areas where fleas like to live, such as deep in carpets, cracks in the floor, and other hard to reach areas.
Question #3: “Can Fleas Travel From House to House?”
Yes! Fleas, including their eggs and larvae, are known to hitch rides on pets, people, clothing, or furniture to move from house to house. The most common way they spread is when your dog or cat interacts with another infested pet and brings fleas home. Even stray or wild animals around your home can carry fleas that migrate indoors.
Question #4: “Can You Suffocate Fleas in a Plastic Bag?”
It is recommended to seal any affected bedding in a plastic bag to limit flea activity. However, it is important to know that this should not be your only method of control. A full treatment is still necessary, especially for the pet, as well as around any rugs, pet beds, and outdoor pet areas to fully eliminate fleas and prevent re-infestation.
Question #5: “Does Carpet Cleaning Get Rid of Fleas?”
Carpet cleaning and regular vacuuming are especially important after a flea treatment. The vibrations help to disturb the flea eggs and pupae, which causes them to hatch so that they can be eliminated more effectively. Be sure to vacuum thoroughly, including along baseboards, under furniture, and in any corners to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment.
Question #6: “Are Fleas Common in Florida?”
Fleas thrive in states with a warm and humid climate, which makes Florida one of the states most affected by these pests. Because of the year-round weather, homeowners need to stay vigilant and take precautions against fleas throughout the entire year.
Question #7: “Can Fleas Live on Hardwood Floors?”
Absolutely. Fleas can live on hardwood floors, primarily in cracks, under baseboards, on the edge of furniture, or in rugs. While hardwood floors might be less ideal in comparison to carpeting, it does not mean your home is safe from fleas.
Question #8: How Far Can a Flea Travel?”
While fleas do not fly, they are excellent jumpers. A flea can jump up to 8 inches high and 13 inches wide, which is over 100 times its body length! This allows them to easily move between pets, bedding, and furniture in search of their next meal. They don’t typically jump too far away from their nesting area, as they don’t usually travel long distances without a host.
Question #9: Will Raid Ant & Roach Killer Kill Fleas?
It is certainly not recommended. Raid Ant & Roach Spray contains insecticides that can kill fleas on contact, but these over the counter sprays are not designed for flea control. It will not eliminate an infestation. These products do not leave behind any residual protection, meaning that any newly hatched fleas will survive and reproduce. Raid products also aren’t safe to use near pets or their bedding so it is a major safety hazard.
Question #10: Can Mice Carry Fleas?
Yes! Mice, rats, and other rodents are common hosts for fleas. Fleas that live on rodents can quickly move into homes and start feeding on pets or people even once the rodent host is gone. A thorough treatment plan will address both the rodents and any fleas they may have brought along, preventing a larger infestation from taking place.
Don’t let fleas take over your home or put your family and pets at risk. There are some home remedies that may temporarily help, but the most effective way to eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations is with professional treatment. At Infinite Pest Solutions, our expert team provides thorough, safe, and reliable flea control solutions that target all stages of the flea life cycle. Give us a call today!
