Fleas can be a real pain, not just for you, but for your furry friends too. But here are many natural, safe and effective home remedies to get rid of fleas and to prevent fleas. Here are 10 natural ideas to help you, your home and Fido to stay flea parasite-free, while also being eco-friendly. Remember, these are for mild cases. Serious flea problems, or recurring flea infestations should be treated by a professional.
1. Vaccuum Regularly
Vacuuming is one of the simplest and most effective ways to get rid of fleas. Be sure to empty the vacuum canister outside, well away from your home after each vacuum session. If you have an existing flea problem, vacuum after each time you brush or comb your dog.
2. Use diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural, abrasive substance that will attack fleas without chemicals by causing them to dry out and die. Sprinkle it on your carpets, furniture, and bedding, and let it sit for at least four hours before vacuuming. If the fleas persist, repeat and allow to sit for 48 hours.
3. Keep your pet clean
Bathe your pet regularly with flea shampoo to keep their fur clean and flea free. Be sure to avoid drying out your dog’s skin by using a dog flea shampoo that contains some moisturizing ingredient.
4. Wash your bedding
During a flea infestation, wash your bedding daily, using the hottest water cycle possible. After the worst is over, revert to once-a-week bed laundering.
5. Use essential oils
Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and cedar oil are great natural flea repellents. Add a few drops to your pet’s collar, massage in a few drops on Fido’s coat or diffuse in your home with an essential oil diffuser. Be sure to watch out for allergic reactions to any essential oils you may choose to use.
6. Make a flea trap
Make a DIY flea trap by mixing warm water, dish soap, and a little bit of vinegar. Place the mixture in a shallow, white dish near a flea-infested area, and the fleas will be attracted to it and trapped. Fleas are more attracted to white than other colors.
7. Use a flea comb
Use a flea comb to remove fleas from your pet’s fur. Comb through their fur, and the fleas will be caught in the teeth of the comb. Have a bowl of water next to you so you can clean the comb after each stroke and deposit the fleas in the water where they can’t escape. Do this outdoors,away from your dog's food bowl, and launder your clothes afterward.
8. Try a flea repelling plant
Flea repelling plants like lemon thyme, pennyroyal and mint are said to be great natural flea deterrents. Keep them in your home or plant them in your yard. This is a passive and mild preventative flea solution, but every bit helps, right?
9. Salt and baking soda
Sprinkle salt and baking soda on your carpets, furniture, and bedding. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. There is anecdotal evidence that this combination will help dehydrate and kill any fleas.
10. Use a natural flea spray
There are natural flea sprays available in some department stores and online. But you can also try a DIY version. Make a natural flea spray by mixing water, vinegar, and essential oils. Spray it on your pet’s fur and in your home to keep fleas at bay. Note that you’ll need to repeat this process daily or every other day, because your dog’s coat has natural odors and scent that will negate the effects of your natural flea spray.
Finally, know that fleas are not just harmless insect pests. In large numbers, they can cause very serious physical harm to your pet. If your pet has a flea infestation that isn’t responding to any of these natural home remedies, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Your dog’s veterinarian has some potent solutions for your dog’s flea infestation. It’s better to get rid of the fleas than to risk your dog’s health from a serious flea infestation.
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