How to Get Rid of Fleas on Hardwood Floors

June 24, 2023 0

Fleas on hardwood floors can create big problems for homeowners. Fleas reproduce quickly and, if left unchecked, can lead to a serious infestation.

Not only are fleas difficult to get rid of once they have taken hold in your home, but they also pose a health risk to you and your family as well. Fleas often carry tapeworms, which can be transmitted to humans and pets. Getting rid of fleas on hardwood floors is a must for anyone looking to maintain a safe and healthy home environment.

One of the main advantages for those looking to get rid of fleas on hardwood floors is that it does not require harsh or potentially dangerous chemicals. Instead, many people prefer using natural methods such as vacuuming, steam cleaning, and diatomaceous earth to treat infested areas. Pet owners often consider natural methods better because they are safer for their beloved pets and the environment. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to get rid of fleas on hardwood floors in this blog article.

Step-by-Step Processes for How to Get Rid of Fleas on Hardwood Floors

Step 1: Inspect Your Floors for Fleas

Use a bright flashlight to inspect your floors for fleas, particularly to dark crevices and cracks. Use a vacuum cleaner with a power brush attachment to thoroughly clean the floor and all of the surrounding furniture. Don’t forget to vacuum underneath any furniture as well.

Step 2: Use a Flea Fogger or Spray

Purchase a flea fogger or spray, such as the Bayer Advantage Household Fogger. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and allow your floors to dry completely before allowing people back in the room. This will help make sure that any remaining fleas are killed.

Step 3: Vacuum Regularly

Vacuuming regularly is one of the most effective ways to help keep your hardwood floors and other furniture free from fleas. Make sure to clean all areas, especially dark and narrow places, that can provide hiding spots for fleas. After vacuuming, remove the vacuum bag and discard it in a sealed plastic bag.

Step 4: Seal and Treat Cracks

Fill in any cracks or crevices with caulk to prevent fleas from using them as hiding spots. Then, treat the areas with an insecticide spray such as Bayer Multi-Insect Killer.

This will help to kill any remaining fleas in these hard-to-reach places. If carpets are affected, prepare treatments such as flea shampoos and sprays to treat those surfaces. Vacuum thoroughly before applying the treatment and again afterward. Again, make sure to discard the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag.

Step 5: Apply Insecticide Dust to Every Crevice

Purchase insecticide dust such as Bayer DeltaDust and use it to treat every crevice and crack, particularly in areas behind furniture and in hard-to-reach spots. This will help make sure that any remaining fleas are killed. If you have carpets and upholstered furniture, use insecticide carpet powders such as Bayer D-Fense Dust to treat those surfaces. Make sure to vacuum the area thoroughly before applying the powder and afterward.

Step 6: Apply Insect Growth Regulators

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) like Bayer Precor 2000 Plus can be used to help break the flea life cycle. This will help make sure that any existing fleas are killed, and new ones won’t be able to emerge. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Purchase or make your own flea traps and place them around the edges of your hardwood floors. This will help catch any remaining fleas that may be lurking in dark crevices and cracks.

Step 7: Wash All Fitted Sheets and Bed Covers

Wash all fitted sheets, bed covers, and other items with hot water to help kill any remaining fleas. Make sure to use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining fleas from the mattress and box spring before replacing the bed covers.

By following these steps, you can eliminate fleas from your hardwood floors and keep them from returning. Be sure to take the necessary precautions when using any chemicals, and make sure to read all labels carefully before use.

Tips for How to Get Rid of Fleas on Hardwood Floors

Wear protective clothing when dealing with fleas on hardwood floors, such as rubber gloves and long sleeves.
Vacuum the area frequently to reduce the number of fleas present and to remove eggs and larvae from the flooring.
Consider using a steam cleaner if you have one available, as this is an effective method for killing fleas on hardwood floors.
Make sure to use only pet-safe flea treatments when dealing with fleas in the home, as some chemical pesticides can harm pets and humans.
Seal any cracks or crevices around baseboards in the room where you are dealing with fleas to prevent them from migrating into other parts of the home.
Place flea traps around the area to catch and kill any adult fleas that may be present.
Wash bedding, pet beds, and toys that may have come in contact with fleas in hot water to eliminate any remaining eggs or larvae.
Call a professional exterminator if you cannot successfully get rid of the fleas on your own. They can provide advice on the most effective methods for treating fleas in your home, as well as administer any necessary chemical treatments that may be needed.

How Can You Protect Your Hardwood Floors From Fleas?

The best way to protect your hardwood floors from fleas is by preventing infestations in the first place. Vacuuming regularly, particularly around furniture and carpets, can help keep flea eggs from hatching on surfaces like wood. Additionally, regular flea spray or dust treatment will help prevent infestations. If you have pets, make sure to use flea medication regularly.

Finally, be sure to inspect any furniture or carpets that come into your home for signs of fleas. Vacuum them thoroughly before bringing them in and then again after they are in the house to reduce the chances of an infestation. Following these steps can help protect your hardwood floors from fleas and keep your home pest-free. If you find yourself dealing with a flea infestation, however, there are also several methods for getting rid of them quickly and effectively.

How Often Should You Clean and Vacuum Your Hardwood Floor to Get Rid of Fleas?

It is important to clean and vacuum your hardwood floor regularly to get rid of fleas. How often this should be done depends on the severity of the infestation and how large an area is affected.
If you have a mild infestation, it’s recommended to vacuum twice a week for the best results. This will help to remove any fleas and eggs that may have been missed during your initial cleaning.
If the infestation is more severe, it’s important to vacuum every day until the fleas are gone. After each use, disposing of the vacuum bag or canister will ensure no eggs remain in your home.
In addition to regular vacuuming, it’s a good idea to mop your hardwood floor with a non-toxic cleanser at least once a week. This will help kill any remaining fleas and eggs and reduce the number of allergens left behind by the fleas.
Finally, be sure to use a flea powder or spray on your hardwood floor after each vacuuming and mopping session. This will help to keep the fleas away in between treatments.

Following these steps, you can eliminate fleas on your hardwood floor and maintain a healthy home environment.

How Can You Protect Yourself and Your Family From the Dangers of Fleas on Hardwood Floors?

Prevention is the best way to protect yourself and your family from fleas on hardwood floors. Regularly vacuum, sweep, mop, and dust the floor to pick up any eggs or larvae that may be present. Keep the area clean by frequently washing bedding, furniture covers, and rugs. Make sure you use EPA-registered flea control products to keep your home and yard free of fleas.

If you already have an infestation, there are several steps you can take to get rid of the fleas on hardwood floors. First, vacuum the area thoroughly, carefully considering crevices and cracks around baseboards and furniture legs. Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to ensure that any eggs or larvae are removed.

Next, sprinkle a light layer of borax over the entire area and let it sit for 24 hours. Borax effectively kills fleas in all life cycle stages, so this step is important for complete eradication.

After 24 hours, vacuum the area again to ensure no borax trace is left behind. Finally, consider using a flea fogger or flea bomb in the room. These products are available at most stores and can help to eradicate any remaining fleas from hardwood floors quickly. Follow the instructions on the package for the best results.

Vacuum Cleaner Equipped With a HEPA Filter

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting rid of fleas on hardwood floors is a multi-stage process that requires diligent and consistent effort to be successful. Start by vacuuming the area thoroughly, use an all-natural flea spray or powder, and treat your pet with a product specifically designed to kill fleas.

Finally, use deterrents such as scratching posts, cedar oil, and citrus-scented cleaners to keep fleas away. With the right approach and determination, you can successfully get rid of fleas on hardwood floors for good. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to get rid of fleas on hardwood floors. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.

Angela Ervin

Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.