Fleas are pervasive pests that cause major headaches for apartment owners. They reproduce very rapidly, and their eggs are easily spread around by the animal hosts they live and feed on. It's important to know the signs of a flea infestation so you can call a flea exterminator for help right away. The guide below contains everything you need to know about fleas and how to keep them away.
I Have No Pets So Why Do I Have Fleas In My Apartment?
Although fleas are commonly associated with household pets, it's possible to have a flea infestation without being a dog or cat owner. Stray animals roaming around your apartment complex carry all sorts of pests, fleas being one of them. Pests like rats, squirrels, and mice frequently make their way into crawl spaces and wind up in pantries and storage areas, especially when they aren't kept clean. If these critters have a flea infestation, there's a good chance your apartment will be affected.
If your apartment had a previous owner, they might have left behind a flea problem you were unaware of. Even if there are no living adult fleas present, fleas in the cocoon stage of their life cycle may still be hiding in carpeting. They will leave their cocoons when the conditions are right, especially if there's a new host. If you don't have a furry friend, fleas will prey on humans, as they need blood to reproduce.
Home Remedies For Residential Flea Infestations
If you discover signs of fleas in your dwelling, it's essential to get things under control as soon as possible. Here's a list of several ways to keep fleas from ruining your space:
- Create a natural flea spray by mixing vinegar, water, witch hazel, and lemon juice. Spray the mixture on carpets and furniture after vacuuming. Don't forget to spray pet bedding and toys, floors, and window sills.
- Make a flea trap using dish soap and water. Fill a plate or a shallow bowl with the mixture and place it in an area with flea activity. It will act as glue and trap fleas as they hop inside. Leave it out overnight for best results.
- Place flea repelling plants around your apartment and outdoor areas. Spearmint, lavender, pennyroyal, and chrysanthemums are the best plants to use.
- Mix a spray of essential oil and water and spritz throughout your home. The most potent oils to use are citrus, rosemary, and lavender.
It can be tough to get rid of fleas on your own. For difficult infestations, it's best to rely on an exterminator like American Pest Solutions.
Flea Eggs: Everything You Need To Know
Flea eggs are small, white, and oval-shaped. Female fleas lay eggs close to their food source, most commonly on the animal they're using as a host. The eggs are produced usually within 48 hours of a blood meal, and a flea can lay anywhere between 20 and 50 eggs per day. If an animal has a flea infestation, the eggs will fall off and land wherever the creature spends most of its time. If the environment is right and there is a host close by, flea eggs will hatch and continue through the life cycle until they reach adulthood.
Complete Flea Control Services For Apartment Homes
Fleas are one of the toughest pests to eliminate without the help of a professional. If you're an apartment owner, trust the experts at American Pest Solutions to eliminate any flea infestations within your units. We've been providing residential and commercial property owners with the highest-quality pest control in Western Massachusetts since 1913. To learn more about our services, contact us today.