DIY Flea Treatment

Fleas are obnoxious pests for both people and pets. These tiny parasitic insects cause unpleasant bites and itching for animals and, in some cases, humans. While chemically based flea treatments are available, they tend to be more toxic and, if administered professionally, more expensive. As an alternative, consider a do-it-yourself flea remedy. These treatments will target both fleas that afflict pets and those that inhabit carpet and furnishings, which can be more difficult to remove.

Things You'll Need

• Agricultural lime
• Diatomaceous earth
• Dish
• Dish soap
• Borax or finely ground salt
• Vacuum
• Dish-washing liquid

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Instructions

• 1

  Prevent flea infestation in the yard. Regular yard maintenance, mowing, and watering will deter fleas. Agricultural lime on grassy areas also impedes the pests. Apply diatomaceous earth around the yard if the fleas have already invaded your home.

• 2

  Build simple flea traps. Put a little bit of water in a shallow dish, add dish soap, and add a source of heat or light. The fleas will be drawn to the light and get caught and drawn in the water.

• 3

  Make a DIY flea powder. Use borax or finely ground salt and sprinkle it around a carpet. Wait a few days and then vacuum it up. You can also use diatomaceous earth. Note that borax can be harmful to small animals.

• 4

  Give your flea-ridden pets a bath. Basic dish-washing liquid is a good treatment because the oils it contains suffocates the fleas and keeps their eggs from sticking to a pet's fur. Cover them in soap, wait five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.