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Pest Control/fleas in house

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Question
How do I get rid of fleas on furniture that cannot be put in washing machines? Is vacuming everyday enough to kill all fleas or do I need to sprinkle flea powder on carpet also.Should I use hot or cold water to wash sheets/bedding or does it matter? I have pets that are outside,but I still found fleas in house any advice you have will be helpful. Thank You

Answer
Amy,

Normal vacuuming is sufficient to kill fleas. Be sure to dispose of the dust bag since it may contain live fleas. Fleas in a home will eventually die if there is no suitable host such as a dog or cat since we (humans) are not suitable hosts. It does not matter how you wash bedding. Here's an article about fleas http://www.livingwithbugs.com/fleas.html and you can follow the links to flea control information.

I hope this is useful.

Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com  

Pest Control

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Jack DeAngelis

Expertise

I can answer questions about the control of pest insects, spiders, mites and related arthropods. These household pests include termites, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles, nuisance ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, wasps, and many others. I can also answer questions about using pesticides and other pest control tools such as baits and traps.

Experience

I am a retired university extension entomologist. I've taught and conducted research in urban and agricultural entomology. I've published over 70 extension publications, 20 research publications and several books about insects.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in Entomology

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