When fleas invade a home, it can be very difficult to get rid of them completely. Because they prefer warm dark places that mimic their host - usually an animal or human - carpet is one of the most common hiding spots for fleas. Getting fleas on hardwood floors can be a much more difficult problem to get rid of. There are two main facts to consider: which product is the best to use, and where the product should be applied.
As stated above, fleas generally stay either on an animal or in carpeting. They do not like hard, slick environments. Therefore, it is important to understand how the fleas are getting onto the hardwood floors to begin with. The most logical solution is that they are falling off their host as it walks through the rooms with hardwood floors. Another reason may be that there are places that they can hide that somewhat mimic their preferred environment.
There are many products that promise to kill fleas. One most understand which is the best to use, not only in their home, but on their animal as well. However, there are times that fleas may get in the house even if the owner does not have an animal. Fleas can also live on humans, and can be brought in by both adults and children who spend time outside. Depending on the situation, a person may need to rid either their house of the fleas, or kill them on both their animals and in their homes.
· Earth Clinic Natural flea remedies and solutions
· Flea Control Flea control information, videos and recommendations
· E-Bug Information on flea control
· Pest Products Flea Control on uncarpeted surfaces
· Pest Control Supplies Information on various ways to get rid of fleas
· E-How Killing fleas by a mixture made of Pine-Sol, a step-by-step guide
Vacuuming a hardwood floor is one of the best ways to begin treating a floor for a flea infestation. Sweep and vacuum the floor as thoroughly as possible to pick up any fleas and flea eggs. Be sure to empty the vacuum and dustbin outside in a separate bag. Many people opt for a natural flea spray to apply to their hardwood floors, but many commercial products will work just as well. The most effective flea control products will use the chemical Permethrin to kill the infestation, along with the chemicals Methoprene and/or Pyriproxyfen. This controls the egg and larva stage of the fleas. As a general rule, sprays that can be applied directly to a surface are usually more effective than flea bombs. Make sure to read the directions carefully before choosing a product to be sure it is safe to use on your hardwood floor.
· Beyond Fleas Information on fleas, how to get rid of them on pets and in the home
Additional flea information:
· College of Agriculture Facts about fleas, treatment options for the home and animals
· Natural Health Techniques Information on the life cycle of the flea, flea control strategies
All animals should be regularly bathed in a good flea soap to stop the fleas in their tracks. One good product is called Triple Pyrethrum Shampoo, as it cleans the animal well and also kills what the larvae feeds on. The animal should be regularly brushed with a flea comb, and also checked for fleas carefully to make sure a re-infestation does not occur. A strong flea dip may be needed if the animal has a bad case of these insects.
