How to Get Rid of Fleas on Clothes
You’re battling a flea infestation, and it’s invaded your wardrobe. Don’t panic! This guide will help you learn how to get rid of fleas on clothes and steps you can take to stop them coming back.
How to Get Rid of Fleas on Clothes
Preventing flea infestations begins with understanding how fleas operate. They latch onto fabrics, especially those that are warm and cozy. So, it’s important to wash your clothes regularly. When washing flea-infested clothes, use hot water as it effectively kills the fleas and their eggs.
There are also natural remedies for fleas on clothes, such as citrus-based sprays or diatomaceous earth. For flea control on different fabric types, consider the fabric’s care instructions to prevent damage.
Heat and regular washing are your best choices if you want to remove fleas from clothes without chemicals.
Does Washing Clothes Kill Fleas?
Washing your garments in hot water can kill fleas, their eggs, and larvae. This simple yet effective method is part of natural remedies for flea infestations.
Fleas thrive in various stages – eggs, larvae, pupae before becoming biting adults. By washing your clothes in hot water, you’re disrupting this cycle, reducing the chance of a full-blown infestation.
But remember, preventing fleas from entering your home is crucial. Keep your environment clean and use flea control products, especially if you’re a pet owner. Regular cleaning is integral in flea prevention.
Vacuum frequently, focus on your pet’s bedding, and consistently wash your fabrics in hot water.
What Temperature to Kill Fleas in Washing Machine?
Your washing machine water temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C) to kill fleas effectively.
Not all fabrics can be washed in hot water, so please check your care label before washing. Cotton, in particular, is prone to shrinking in hot water.
If you cannot wash your clothes in hot water, try using an alternative method to kill fleas on clothes, such as your garment steamer.
Will the Dryer Heat Kill Fleas?
a dryer can kill fleas if the temperature is above 104°F (40°C) for a sustained amount of time. To ensure all fleas are killed, it is recommended to dry clothes on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
As with the hot water washing advice, always check the care label on your clothing. You may shrink your clothes if the heat is too high and for a prolonged period of time.
How do Fleas Get in or on Clothes?
Fleas can jump up to 7 inches vertically and up to 13 inches horizontally, so they can easily jump onto clothing near an infested area or animal.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fleas are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of a host, which can be an animal or a human. When a flea bites a human, it uses its specialized mouthparts to pierce the skin and suck blood.
The good news is flea larvae cannot survive on clothes. Pre-emerged adult fleas and flea larvae require a blood meal to survive and will die within a few days to a week without a host.
Adult fleas can survive for several weeks to several months without a host if environmental conditions are favorable, such as high humidity and moderate temperatures.
Will a Hot Iron Kill Flea Eggs?
The effectiveness of a hot iron in eliminating flea eggs is still under debate. While heat will kill fleas, the required temperature might damage your fabrics. You could potentially burn a hole in your clothing with the iron in place.
Alternative flea treatments include regularly washing your clothes and bedding in hot water, vacuuming your carpets, and using approved flea control products.
Is there a Flea Spray for Clothes and Bedding?
A variety of flea sprays are available that are designed for use on clothes and bedding.
Natural remedies for flea-infested clothes and bedding are an effective and safe alternative. You can whip up DIY flea spray recipes using essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus, known for their flea-control properties. Regularly spray these on your clothes and bedding to prevent infestations.
Remember to wash your clothes and bedding frequently and vacuum your home to eliminate fleas at all life stages.
Commercial flea sprays are another effective flea treatment option for clothes and bedding. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
With these tips, you can ensure a flea-free environment for you and your family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can effectively get rid of fleas on clothes by washing them with hot water and bleach. However, this alone won’t suffice.
You also need a comprehensive home pest control program that includes regular vacuuming and washing of linen. Using flea treatments for pets and natural flea products can also be beneficial.
Remember, preventive measures like maintaining a clean home and grooming your pets regularly can help prevent flea infestations.
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