6 home remedies to treat a flea infestation
You might have faced a flea infestation at your home at least once if you own a pet. Fleas are parasites that feed off blood, biting both humans and animals. If your pet is suffering from a flea attack, you will probably notice them repeatedly scratching certain body parts as the fleas move quickly through their fur. These parasites can cause skin allergies and transmit other parasites such as tapeworms. The fact that fleas can jump higher and further than any other insect of their size, makes it all the more difficult to get rid of them. So, if you feel that your home and pets are infested with them, then the following home remedies can be helpful for flea treatments.
- Lemon spray
This home remedy for flea treatment is made from non-toxic products and does not have any known side effects. You can create your own lemon flea spray by mixing one portion of water with two portions of vinegar and half a portion of lemon juice. Before applying this solution around your home, make sure to vacuum-clean the living space. Once cleaned, apply the natural flea spray on carpets, furniture, pet bedding, windowsills, and floors. - Dish soap
Due to its high viscosity, this water and dish soap solution acts as glue for trapping fleas. All you need to do is fill a plate or bowl with one portion of water and half a portion of soap and place it in rooms where there is a maximum infestation of fleas. This home remedy for flea treatment works best during the night because fleas are nocturnal in nature. It is recommended to keep the mixture away from children and pets. - Salt
Apart from baking soda, even salt can be an effective home remedy to get rid of fleas because of its dehydrating properties. You will need finely ground salt for this treatment to work effectively. Sprinkle the salt all over the carpets in each room and leave it to rest for a day or two before vacuuming your home throughout. - Diatomaceous earth
This is an unconventional flea treatment option out of the other home remedies. Diatomaceous earth is the microscopic remains of fossilized algae that have the same dehydrating effects as salt. It is important to note that the diatomaceous earth to be used should be of the food grade variety available in stores. It should also be kept away from the reach of children and handled with care, as it can cause irritation in the eyes and throat. - Rosemary
It is a great organic option for flea control which can be used to treat flea infestations in the home as well as on pets. For its effective use, make a herbal flea powder by finely grinding rosemary, rue, wormwood, peppermint, and fennel using a pestle and mortar. Sprinkle it on carpets, furniture, windowsills, and the pet bedding. Rosemary is a natural flea repellent. Even though it does not get rid of fleas, it will repel and prevent them. - Flea repelling plants
Certain plants contain compounds, oils, and chemicals which repel fleas. Using these plants such as pennyroyal, chrysanthemums, lavender, and spearmint can help prevent a flea infestation.