Fleas are small insects that are parasitic and feed on the blood of animals, including humans. They can be a big nuisance and cause various health issues for both pets and people. Unfortunately, you don’t need to have a dog to have fleas. They can come in on various animals, including clothing. Can fleas live on carpet? Yes, they spend a lot of time where pets usually are. The carpet is a great environment for them to lay eggs.
Let’s find out more about fleas.
What Are Fleas?
Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that belong to the order Siphonaptera. They have flattened bodies that are well-adapted for moving through the fur or feathers of their hosts. These ectoparasites survive by feeding on the blood of warm-blooded animals.
What Do Fleas Look Like?
Adult fleas are usually reddish-brown and about 2-3 millimeters long. They have a thin, flat body shape and are equipped with powerful hind legs that enable them to jump long distances. Fleas have piercing mouthparts which they use to suck blood from their hosts.
Where Do Fleas Come From?
Fleas can come from various sources such as other infested animals, including stray cats or dogs, rodents, or wildlife that may have entered your home. Fleas are excellent hitchhikers and can also be brought inside on clothing or items that have come into contact with an infested area.
Can Fleas Live in Carpet?
Yes, fleas can live in carpet. Once inside your home, fleas tend to hide in areas where pets spend most of their time, such as carpets, rugs, bedding, and upholstered furniture. In addition, the fibers in carpets provide an ideal environment for flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults to thrive.
How to Tell If You Have Fleas in Your Carpet
To find out if you have fleas on your carpet, wear white socks and walk around the area. Fleas are attracted to the contrast between their dark bodies and the light-colored fabric. You may also notice small black dots on the surface of the carpet, which are flea feces.
How Long Do Fleas Live in Carpet?
Fleas can live on carpet for quite a long time if left untreated. Adult fleas can survive for about 2-3 months, while their eggs can hatch and develop into adults within 2-3 weeks. Additionally, it’s essential to address a flea infestation promptly to prevent their population from growing rapidly.
Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Fleas in Carpet
There are several natural remedies you can try to eliminate fleas from your carpet. These include:
- Vacuuming regularly and disposing of the vacuum bag immediately
- Washing and drying pet bedding on high heat
- Sprinkling diatomaceous earth or baking soda on the carpet and vacuuming it up after a few hours
- Use a mixture of water and lemon juice as a natural flea spray for carpets
Other Treatments to Get Rid of Fleas on Carpet
In addition to natural remedies, there are various treatments available to eradicate fleas from your carpet. These include:
- Flea control sprays specifically designed for carpets
- Professional carpet cleaning services that use steam or hot water extraction methods
- Insecticidal powders can be sprinkled on the carpet and vacuumed up later
Take a look at the video below about removing fleas from the carpet.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about fleas in the carpet, let’s take a look at a few other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is removing odor from the carpet. As mentioned above, baking soda can get rid of fleas. The good news is that it is also good for getting rid of odor in the carpet.
Another is getting grease out of the carpet. If you take care of it right away, you have a better chance of getting it out of the carpet. Also, you will need to blot it and use a cleaning solution.
Lastly, cleaning the carpet on the stairs. This can be a little tricky depending on the staircase. However, the best way to do this is by using a vacuum cleaner and also carpet cleaner.
When Do I Call a Professional
If you have a severe flea infestation in your carpet that persists despite your efforts, it may be necessary to call a professional pest control service. They have the expertise and tools to effectively eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations.
Conclusion
Fleas can be a troublesome problem, especially when they infest your carpet. Regular vacuuming, washing pet bedding, and using natural or chemical treatments can help get rid of fleas on your carpet. Remember, swift action is essential to prevent an infestation from worsening and causing health issues for you and your pets. Call Waypoint Property Inspection to inspect your home in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, and surrounding areas.
