How to Get Rid of Fleas on Hard Floors

Fleas can be a persistent nuisance, especially when they infest your home. While they are commonly associated with pets, fleas can easily spread and make their way onto hard floors, where they hide in cracks and crevices.

If left untreated, these pests can quickly multiply and become more difficult to control. Fortunately, with the right approach and tools, you can effectively get rid of fleas on hard floors and prevent them from returning.

This guide on how to get rid of fleas on hard floors will walk you through the necessary steps for eliminating these unwelcome pests from your living spaces.

Why Are Fleas a Problem on Hard Floors?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why fleas are an issue on hard floors.

Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They can jump long distances and quickly move from one host to another. However, they can also survive for extended periods without a meal, which means they can lie dormant in your home for weeks or even months.

When fleas are present on hard floors, they tend to hide in the cracks and crevices where it’s challenging to reach them. This makes it harder to control and eliminate them completely.

Needed Materials

To effectively get rid of fleas on hard floors, you will need the following materials:

• Vacuum Cleaner With Strong Suction Power
• Hot Water and Soap
• Essential Oils Such as Lavender, Peppermint, or Eucalyptus
• Baking Soda
• Diatomaceous Earth (De)
• Steam Cleaner (Optional)
• Pest Control Spray (Optional)

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Get Rid of Fleas on Hard Floors

Step 1: Thoroughly Vacuum the Floors 

Start by thoroughly vacuuming the hard floors to remove fleas, larvae, and eggs. Pay special attention to cracks, crevices, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas where fleas may be hiding. Use a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power and, if possible, a crevice tool attachment for better precision.

Once you’ve finished vacuuming, immediately dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outside. This prevents fleas from re-entering your home. Regular vacuuming is critical in disrupting the flea life cycle and reducing their population.

Step 2: Mop the Floors with Hot Soapy Water 

After vacuuming, mop the hard floors with hot soapy water. Fleas and their eggs cannot survive high temperatures, making this step vital in killing them. Use a mop or cloth and thoroughly clean all surfaces, including baseboards.

Remember to change the water frequently as you clean to avoid spreading fleas around your home.

Step 3: Use Essential Oils 

Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are natural flea repellents and can help in driving fleas out of hiding. Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the mixture on the hard floors, paying special attention to cracks, crevices, and corners where fleas are likely to reside. 

If preferred, you can also add a few drops of essential oil to the hot, soapy water while mopping the floors in Step 2 for added effectiveness. However, ensure that the oils you use are pet-safe, as some essential oils can be toxic to animals. This step not only aids in flea control but also leaves your home smelling fresh and clean.

Step 4: Use Baking Soda 

Baking soda is another natural remedy that can be used to get rid of fleas on hard floors. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the floors and leave it for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum up the powder and dispose of it outside.

The baking soda dehydrates fleas and dries out their eggs, effectively killing them. It also helps in neutralizing any unpleasant odors left behind by flea infestations.

Step 5: Apply Diatomaceous Earth (De) 

Diatomaceous earth, or DE for short, is a fine powder made from fossilized algae that acts as an abrasive to kill fleas. Sprinkle the powder onto the hard floors and work it into the cracks and crevices using a broom. Leave it for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.

Similar to baking soda, DE dehydrates fleas and their eggs, effectively killing them.

Step 6: Steam Clean (Optional) 

If you have a steam cleaner, you can use it to get rid of fleas on hard floors. The high temperatures produced by steam cleaners are effective in killing fleas at all stages of their life cycle.

Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and run the steam cleaner over your hard floors, paying special attention to cracks and crevices where fleas may be hiding.

Step 7: Use Pest Control Spray (Optional) 

If the infestation is severe, you may want to consider using a pest control spray specifically designed for fleas. These sprays contain insecticides that can effectively kill adult fleas and disrupt their life cycle. However, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use protective gear while applying the spray.

The effectiveness of pest control sprays can vary, so it’s important to use them in conjunction with other methods for better results.

Step 8: Repeat the Process 

It’s crucial to be thorough and consistent when dealing with a flea infestation on hard floors. Repeating the above steps at least once or twice a week until you no longer see any fleas is essential in getting rid of them completely. Additionally, regular vacuuming and cleaning are necessary to prevent re-infestations.

Following these eight steps on how to get rid of fleas on hard floors should help in effectively getting rid of fleas on hard floors. However, it’s essential to stay vigilant and continue with preventive measures to avoid future infestations. Remember to also treat your pets for fleas regularly to prevent them from bringing them back into the house. With patience and persistence, you can successfully eliminate these pesky pests and keep your home flea-free. Happy cleaning!

Prevention Tips

• Regularly vacuum your hard floors and dispose of the bag/canister outside.
• Wash your pet’s bedding regularly
• Bathe and groom your pets frequently using flea-repellent shampoos.
• Treat your pets with flea prevention products prescribed by a veterinarian.
• Keep your lawn and yard well-maintained to prevent outdoor flea infestations.
• Seal any cracks or crevices in your home to prevent fleas from entering.
• Use natural flea-repellents such as essential oils around the house.
• Keep your home clean and clutter-free to minimize hiding spots for fleas.
• Consult a professional exterminator if the infestation is severe or persistent.

By following these prevention tips on how to get rid of fleas on hard floors, you can reduce the likelihood of fleas infesting your hard floors and keep your home pest-free. Remember that early detection and regular maintenance are key in preventing flea problems from escalating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can Fleas Survive on Hard Floors?

A: Yes, fleas can survive on hard floors for up to a few days, depending on environmental conditions. However, they prefer living in carpets and fabrics where they can hide and lay eggs. The steps outlined in this guide should help effectively eliminate fleas from hard floors.

Q2: Do Essential Oils Really Work in Repelling Fleas?

A: Yes, certain essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus have been proven to repel fleas. However, it’s important to use pet-safe oils and follow proper dilution guidelines to prevent any potential harm to your pets.

Q3: Can I Use Chemical Pesticides on Hard Floors?

A: Yes, you can use chemical pesticides designed for fleas on hard floors. However, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions while using them. It’s also important to note that these chemicals may pose a risk to children or pets, so it’s important to use them sparingly and keep them out of reach.

Q4: How Often Should I Repeat These Steps?

A: It’s recommended to repeat the above steps at least once or twice a week until fleas are no longer visible on your hard floors. However, regular cleaning and preventive measures should also be maintained to avoid future infestations.  Overall, the frequency depends on the severity of the infestation and how well you maintain flea control measures in your home.

Conclusion

Dealing with fleas on hard floors can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but it is achievable with the right approach and persistent effort. By following the outlined steps on how to get rid of fleas on hard floors, employing natural remedies like baking soda and diatomaceous earth, and using additional tools such as steam cleaners or pest control sprays when needed, you can effectively eliminate fleas from your home.

Preventive measures are equally important to ensure fleas do not return, so regular cleaning, treating your pets, and maintaining a flea-free environment should be a priority. With diligence and consistency, you can reclaim your space and enjoy a clean, comfortable, and flea-free home.