How to Get Rid of Fleas in the House Fast (and Naturally), Per Entomologists

Pets are one of life’s most joyous treasures—but the fleas that can often come along with them are anything but. Even if you aren't a pet parent, these pests can invade your home, and they multiply quickly, causing chaos, physical irritation, and seemingly endless frustrations. Wondering how to get rid of fleas in the house fast? Well, of course you are. And we can do you one better: We're uncovering how to do so naturally, too.

Below, our pest control experts share how to treat a flea infestation naturally and prevent them from coming back. 

Signs of an In-Home Flea Infestation

If you have pets and suspect a flea infestiation, the most obvious sign would come from your pets' excessive scratching. “Flea's saliva will cause irritation and allergic reactions in pets,” says pest control expert Ed Dolshun, “resulting in heavy scratching around the neck, head and tail areas.” 

At times, fleas may intermittently jump and bite people, adds entomologist Dr. Tracy Ellis. Humans may experience red swollen, itchy bites around their midsection, ankles or lower legs. 

As for your home, keep an eye out for "flea dirt." This looks like tiny black or reddish brown specks that can resemble coffee grounds. “This is actually flea feces that can serve as food for their larvae,” Dolshun explains. “Flea eggs are another telltale sign. Look for small, oval-shaped and off-white specks that are found in your pet's bedding, carpets and cracks in hardwood.”

How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally

Fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day, warns entomologist Daniel Baldwin, so it’s important to act fast once you’ve identified an infestation.

1. Apply Diatomaceous Earth

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth on carpets and furniture to kill fleas that you’ve found in areas of your home. “It’s a natural powder that contains fossilized algae, and it’s harmless to humans and pets but deadly for fleas,” Baldwin explains. “Its unique abrasive texture cuts through the waxed outer layer of the bugs, causing dehydration and death.” 

2. Harness High Heat

Launder all bedding, soft furnishings, and affected washable fabrics (including pet bedding, if applicable) in hot water above 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This effectively eliminates fleas at all life stages, explains Ellis. “Thorough drying using high heat can also help ensure fleas and their eggs are destroyed,” she says.

3. Vacuum Thoroughly

Frequent vacuuming of carpets, rugs, furniture, and floors removes flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults from your home environment—making it highly effective for flea control, says Ellis.

“Be sure to empty or discard vacuum contents outside promptly afterward,” she says, “to prevent fleas from escaping.” (And kicking off the process and lifecycle all over again!)

Flea Removal Methods to Avoid

The above steps are expert-backed as a natural way to rid your home of these maddening buggers. Meanwhile, you'll want to steer clear of these common methods that can be dangerous or just plain ineffective.

• Chemically heavy sprays: Dolshun cautions that synthetic chemicals can be harmful to both humans and pets. "If used, apply sparingly and always follow the instructions," he says.
• Dryer sheets: There are claims that placing dryer sheets in pet bedding or rubbing them on their pets can repel fleas. However, Baldwin says there’s little scientific evidence to support this. “Fleas are resilient pests, and using dryer sheets alone won’t provide adequate protection,” he warns. “It’s crucial to use veterinary-approved flea treatments and regularly clean and vacuum your home to prevent flea infestations.” 
• Direct application of homemade elixirs on your pet: Some DIY concoctions may be harmful, causing irritation or worsening health issues. Avoid homemade or DIY flea sprays and treatments for your pet, Ellis advises. “Skin conditions can be complex to remedy and should be under the care of your veterinarian.”

How to Prevent Fleas in Your Home

Like with most pests, prevention is imperative once a flea infestation is under control. After all, it’s much less stressful to practice preventative measures than to treat a recurring issue. 

Keep Up with Pet Prevention Methods

One of the most effective ways to prevent flea infestations is by inspecting your pets after they’ve spent time outdoors, says Baldwin, “This can help you catch any problems early and prevent more severe infestations.” 

Additionally, ensure your pet is up-to-date on their flea and tick prevention medications. “Consult your veterinarian-prescribed to find the best treatment for your pet’s needs that will help to contain the spread of fleas around the home,” says Baldwin. (There are various types of treatments available, including topical sprays, collars, and oral medications.)

Remember: "If your pet is not on a veterinarian-approved flea preventative," Ellis warns, "it is likely that dog parks and doggie day care facilities (as well as outdoor cats) could be a source of re-infestation of fleas, as they can easily jump from animal to animal."

And if it's not already a part of your cleaning routine, be sure to add pet bedding to your regular hot-wash rotation.

Vacuum Daily 

Vacuuming regularly (carpet, curtains, and upholstered furniture) is crucial in flea removal and prevention because it eliminates fleas at all life stages, including eggs. "Using baking soda or diatomaceous earth, in conjunction with vacuuming," Baldwin recommends.

Maintain Your Yard

Fleas thrive in damp, shady areas, so think about removing piles of leaves or debris from your yard or garden. Mow your lawn regularly and trim any overgrown shrubs or trees to allow more sun in. “If you have a sandbox or play area for kids, make sure to keep it clean and covered when not in use,” Baldwin suggests.

"Prevent wild animals such as deer, raccoons, and opossums from entering your yard," he adds. "These animals can carry fleas and transfer them to your yard, where your pets can pick them up."

Spray Lemon Water

According to Dolshun, fleas hate citrus. You can create a lemon-based spray using boiled sliced lemons for an effective deterrent. Let the solution sit overnight, and spray on furniture and carpets. The acidic components of lemons will act as a natural repellant.

Spritz Apple Cider Vinegar

Spraying a diluted solution of apple cider vinegar and water along areas where fleas have been seen can help deter them in the future. This is due to the fleas' dislike of the smell and taste of the common ingredient, says Baldwin.

Try Essential Oils

If you don't own a pet and your flea infestation stemmed from gardening or outdoor fun, essential oil scents such as tea tree, lavender, and peppermint can help keep fleas away, according to Baldwin.

(Some essential oils can be harmful to humans and even fatal to pets, so be sure first to consult your healthcare provider (or vet if your household includes any furry friends).

When to Call an Expert 

“Get those fleas taken care of so everyone can exist comfortably within their own home," says Dolshun. If pests persist despite use of veterinarian-prescribed products, diligent cleaning, and prevention treatments, Ellis says it's time to consult a pest management professional for an on-site visit.  

“The pest management professional may be able to identify an overlooked source of re-infestation and bring heavy infestations under control with specialized products and professional knowledge,” Ellis explains. “An expert can apply targeted treatments safely, as well as provide recommendations to ensure long-term control.”