Here’s how to get rid of fleas in the house quickly and keep them from returning.

What Causes Fleas?

But even if you don’t see them hopping around, look for other signs.

Dog scratching in house

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

If you see your pet scratching constantly, this is a surefire sign that fleas are in your home.

Look for flea “dirt” or fecal matter and tiny, oval, off-white eggs on their skin.

These flea droppings are black specs that can also linger on your bedding and carpeting.

Don’t forget to use your vacuum cleaner attachment to vacuum the edges of the room and hard-to-reach corners.

Remove the bag, dump the bin, and throw out the trash when finished.

you’ve got the option to use a regular liquid laundry detergent and dry thoroughly.

Be sure to continue vacuuming thoroughly over the coming days.

Remedying the situation will take some daily effort for the foreseeable future.

Sprinkle it over the affected area and then vacuum it away to help bring a speedy death to fleas.

Place the bowl on the floor near a nightlight.

With other lights around off, fleas will jump towards the light landing in the bowl and drowning.

check that your spray is formulated to kill fleas at all stages of life, including eggs.

When applying the spray around the home, wear protective gloves and allow it to dry thoroughly.

Be cautious and follow meticulous directions if this key in of intervention is needed.

Protect your pets and family by thoroughly reading the company’s instructions and following them diligently.

Vacuum carpets and furniture often, especially where pets may curl up.

Wash bedding frequently, at least once every other week.

Seal up any crevices beneath doorways or in window screens that can provide entry into the home.

Certain essential oils, such as citronella and lemongrass, have been proven to repel fleas.

Using a non-toxic flea spray will interrupt the life cycle of fleas in your home.

Be sure to also clean infested areas and items on the same day.

Mowing your lawn regularly will eliminate the fleas hiding in longer grass.

Avoid overwatering, as they prefer a moist environment.

Spread cedar chips along fences and garden beds, as they don’t like the smell.

If all else fails, spray the lawn with a safe insecticide for children and pets.

Controlling Fleas.Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

Fleas.University of Maryland Extension.

What is Nitenpyram?VCA Animal Hospitals.

Flea Control and Prevention.Entomology at the University of Kentucky.

National Pesticide Information Center.