How to Get Rid of Fleas That Is Safe for Kids

A flea infestation is stressful for you and your pet. Not only is your pet physically miserable, but you have to deal with the thought of tiny bloodsucking parasites occupying your home. The good news is that you can easily manage a flea infestation without jeopardizing your pet's or family's health. You won't have to worry about exposing anyone to harsh chemicals. All you'll need are basic pantry items and a little persistence.

Things You'll Need

• Pesticide-free flea shampoo
• Flea comb
• Table salt
• Baking soda
• Vacuum
• Plastic bags
• Washing machine
• Dryer
• Lemon juice
• Garlic

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your pet using a pesticide-free flea shampoo. Purchase a small flea comb and carefully comb through your pet's hair. Rinse the comb often to release the eggs and fleas. Continue this process until your pet's coat appears flea free. Your pet is most likely the one that brought the fleas into the home, so treating it is the place to begin.

• 2

  Clean your home, focusing on carpeted areas, high-traffic areas, pet sleeping areas and bedding. Sprinkle table salt all over your carpets. If you don't want to use salt, use baking soda or a combination of the two. The granules dehydrate the fleas and kill them.

• 3

  Leave the mixture on the carpet for an entire day and then vacuum. Place the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag and throw it away.

• 4

  Wash all bedding in hot water with detergent, and dry on high heat.

• 5

  Pour or spray fresh-squeezed lemon juice on your pet after bathing it to repel fleas.

• 6

  Repeat each step until the flea infestation is gone.