There are hundreds of flea repellents on the market, but they contain chemicals.
Here is how to get rid of fleas with natural repellents.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring powder made from the microscopic remains of diatom algae.
It penetrates the exoskeleton of a flea and kills it through dehydration.
Diatomaceous earth can kill fleas within four hours.
Sprinkle it around infested areas indoors and outdoors.
Diatomaceous earth is non-toxic to pets and humans unless directly inhaled.
Salt
Sprinkling salt where fleas are active will also dehydrate the eggs and insects.
Salt works well on carpets and upholstery, where it can be easily vacuumed away.
Sprinkle it liberally and let it work for at least 24 hours before vacuuming.
Dish Soap
Dishwashing liquid and water trap live fleas.
Put it out at night when the fleas are most active and will become trapped in the soapy solution.
This does not, however, take care of the eggs that are still waiting to hatch.
Studies have shown that fleas are attracted to both light and heat sources.
Rosemary Oil
Fleas and ticks do not like the scent of rosemary.
Plant it outside to help repel fleas from your yard.
Lavender Oil
Lavender is another natural flea repellent.
Add a few drops of lavender oil to baking soda or cornstarch to create an herbal flea powder repellent.
Peppermint Oil
The refreshing smell of mint attracts humans, but it is overpowering for fleas.
Any mint oil can be used to create an herbal flea powder.
Planting mint near the entrances of your home will also help keep fleas away.
you might also place cedar chips in bowls near flea infestations to repel the pests.
Boric Acid
Boric acid powder acts as a desiccant to kill fleas and roaches.
Use in cracks and crevices, on edges of cabinets, and on the floors behind appliances.
Do not use boric acid on kitchen counters since it is slightly toxic to humans.
This treatment will only work well if deep cleaning of bedding and resting spots is also done.
When to Call a Professional
If the infestation is severe, a pest professional can help.
Deep cleaning and diatomaceous earth are the best natural flea removal methods.
To repel fleas, choose mint or cedarwood essential oil sprays.
Diatomaceous earth can kill fleas within four hours through dehydration.
Like citrus solutions, distilled white vinegar diluted with water and sprayed on surfaces can repel fleas.
Flea Control and Prevention.University of Kentucky.
Diatomaceous Earth Fact Sheet.
National Pesticide Information Center.
IPM for Fleas in Schools.United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Efficient Natural Flea Treatments for Dogs.The National Canine Cancer Foundation.
Tadee, Phacharaporn et al.Essential oil pharmaceuticals for killing ectoparasites on dogs.Journal of veterinary science, vol.
