How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Carpet and Upholstery

Borax can control fleas by dessicating their bodies.

Sodium borate, sold in the laundry aisle of grocery and department stores as borax, dries out the bodies of fleas and kills them. You can apply it to kill fleas on your upholstery and carpets. Since the borax can also dry your skin, wear gloves and long sleeves and pants if you have sensitive skin and a dust mask if you have breathing problems.

Things You'll Need

• Dust mask
• Borax
• Broom
• Vacuum

Instructions

1. Put pets in another area of your home away from the dust of the borax or put them outside temporarily. Cover bird cages or place them outside.

2. Remove the cushions and vacuum the upholstery.

3. Punch holes in the top of a box of borax and sprinkle it liberally over upholstery, carpets and pet bedding.

4. Brush the borax with a broom into the carpet and the upholstery to ensure good coverage. Allow the borax to stand for about 30 to 45 minutes or longer.

5. Vacuum carpets, upholstery and pet bedding thoroughly, using a fresh vacuum bag if available. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Cover bird cages or place them outside while doing this

• The Borax can dry your skin. Wear gloves and long sleeves and pants if you have sensitive skin.

• You can use regular Dawn dish liquid to bathe your dogs and it kills fleas on them without harming your pet to maintain your home after the Borax treatment.

• Even though Borax is a naturally occuring mineral, it is best to keep all pets away just for safety's sake.

• If you have COPD/Asthma/Emphysema please wear a dust mask when applying and brushing.

References

• Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine: Fleas
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Reduced Chemical Management of Fleas
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: IPM Tactics For Flea Control