How to Get Rid of Fleas in Bedding

A pet with fleas can quickly infest an entire home. While fleas on the pet can be eliminated by a bath in flea soap or a trip to the veterinarian, it is equally important to remove the fleas from your home to stop the infestation. Often, pet owners neglect an area of their home in the war against fleas, only to find the areas they treated are quickly taken over again by these blood hungry pests. When you find fleas in your bedroom, it's important to get rid of fleas in the bedding to eliminate the problem completely.

Instructions

1. Remove all bedding items from the bed, including sheets, blankets, comforters, pillows and mattress covers.

2. Wash the linens, sheets and blankets in the hottest water possible, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Dry at the hottest temperature recommended.

3. Place pillows and any item that cannot be machine washed into the dryer for one half hour on the hottest setting.

4. Vacuum the mattress, box spring and carpeting in the bedroom and dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag immediately. This will remove any eggs and larva that are hidden in the room. Repeat the vacuuming process at least every other day for a two week period.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to vacuum beneath the bed. If the infestation is very heavy, consider spraying the room or using a flea "bomb" before replacing your clean bedding. Remember to wash and vacuum your pet's bedding, too.

References

• Ohio State University
• Texas A & M University
• University of California

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• University of Nebraska
• Flea Control