A flea infestation in your home or apartment is no laughing matter, especially considering that flea bites can cause severe allergic reactions in both humans and pets. At Pro Active Pest Control, we take getting rid of fleas in your home seriously. In addition to fleas, we also provide both residential and commercial pest control in Mesa for rodents, bed bugs, and more.
Interestingly, fleas can invade any type of residence — homes or apartments, pets or no pets. So, people who live in apartments are not immune to having to deal with the misfortune of this particular pest problem. And if you are currently in the throes of an infestation in your apartment, read on for more information on ways to get rid of fleas so you may relax comfortably in your living space again.
I Have No Pets, So Why Do I Have Fleas In My Apartment?
When most people think of fleas, they automatically think of pets, which is not an uncommon, or even an entirely incorrect perception. In many cases, fleas attach themselves to your four-legged, furry family member, who then provides free transportation from the outside world into your comfy living quarters. So, you may find it quite surprising that fleas can enter your home through other means that don’t require hitching a ride on your pet.
Fleas rarely use humans as hosts, but their tiny size makes it possible for them to sneak into your apartment through holes in your window screens or cracks in the floor. Also, have you recently been gifted or purchased any old furniture or clothing by a previous owner? This is the second most common way that fleas can enter your apartment.
Home Remedies For Residential Flea Infestations
Of course, when you discover a flea infestation in your home, your knee-jerk reaction is to eliminate the problem quickly. Therefore, we have provided a list of simple remedies you can do yourself:
- Use a powerful vacuum cleaner on floors, mattresses, and upholstery.
- Wash all of your bedding in detergent and hot water.
- Dry your bedding using the highest heat setting.
- Try using a steam cleaner that employs a combination of soap and high heat.
Also, you can use your vacuum’s attachments in tight spaces, like cracks, which make good hiding places for fleas and their eggs. However, it is best to do this if your vacuum comes with a bag so you may properly dispose of the contents without ever having to come into contact with them.
Flea Eggs: Everything You Need To Know
Reproductively, female fleas need blood in order to lay eggs. In fact, they cannot lay eggs until after consuming their first blood meal. Once that happens, a female flea can actually lay up to 50 eggs a day, and well over 100 eggs within a lifecycle of a few months. A female flea will use blood to provide nutrients to the developing eggs, which are tiny ovals that look like grains of rice. The color of the eggs can range from bright white to off-white to translucent. Believe it or not, it is not uncommon for people to confuse flea eggs with dandruff. Therefore, successful flea removal isn’t complete until all of the flea eggs have been destroyed and properly discarded.
Complete Flea Control Services For Apartment Homes
The most complete and best way to get rid of fleas in your apartment is to hire an experienced exterminating company to conduct a thorough inspection and evaluation. Your complex should be notified of the situation so they can take the appropriate action, which should include a call to us here at Pro Active Pest Control for a free quote. We provide eco-friendly treatments, ensuring your health and safety.