Wondered how to get rid of fleas in your car? These pesky little insects can quickly turn your vehicle into an uncomfortable space. The key to a flea-free car involves thorough cleaning and treatment with effective products.
Read on to learn the detailed steps you need to take to ensure that every last flea is gone for good.
Key Takeaways
- All personal items, seat covers, and floor mats should be cleaned to stop flea eggs from hiding in the car.
- A strong vacuum and steam cleaning help remove fleas from the car’s interior, including hard-to-reach areas.
- Flea sprays or natural treatments like diatomaceous earth can help get rid of fleas for good.
- Regularly checking your pets and cleaning their belongings can keep fleas from coming back.
HOW TO GET RID OF FLEAS IN YOUR CAR
Getting rid of cat or dog fleas in your car requires thorough cleaning and specific treatments. Here are some tips for getting rid of them.
Step 1. Remove All Personal Items from the Car
Begin by removing all personal items from the car, such as bags, toys, and electronics. This ensures that no flea eggs or larvae can hide in your belongings. Place these items in plastic bags and seal them tightly.
This helps to prevent the fleas from spreading back into the car after cleaning.
Step 2. Wash Seat Covers, Floor Mats, and Upholstery
Next, take out all removable seat covers and floor mats. Wash them in hot water to kill adult fleas, larvae, pupae, and eggs. For non-removable upholstery, use a quality upholstery cleaner. Hot water can effectively remove flea dirt and eggs hidden within the fabric.
For the best results, use the upholstery cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3. Thoroughly Vacuum the Car
Vacuuming is critical. Use a vacuum cleaner with a powerful suction to clean the entire car interior, including seats, floors, and trunk. Pay special attention to the crevices and seams where flea dirt and eggs can accumulate.
After vacuuming, empty the canister or replace the vacuum bag immediately to prevent fleas from escaping.
Step 4. Use a Steam Cleaner for Added Effectiveness
A steam cleaner can effectively kill fleas at all life cycle stages. The high steam temperature penetrates deep into the upholstery and carpets, reaching areas that vacuums might miss.
To kill fleas and their eggs, move the steam cleaner slowly over the surfaces to ensure enough heat exposure.
Step 5. Apply Flea Treatment Products
After cleaning, apply flea treatment products specifically designed for vehicles. Options include flea spray, flea bombs, and products with insect growth regulators. Follow the product instructions carefully, ensuring they cover the entire interior.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural DIY alternative that can help kill fleas by dehydrating them. However, it can be messy when used in a car, so it should be applied sparingly and vacuumed after leaving it for a few hours.
Step 6. Air Out the Car and Check for Fleas
Once you’ve applied the treatments, let the car air out. Open all doors and windows to remove any lingering fumes from the products. Fresh air also helps dry out any moisture from the steam cleaning process.
After allowing the car to air out, perform a detailed inspection by checking the upholstery, under seats, and in crevices for signs of fleas. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process to achieve complete eradication.
I first found out that I had fleas in my car when I started getting bit while I was driving. By the time I had figured out that I had a flea infestation, it was too late.
The infestation was so bad that anyone who entered my car left with fleas, and they were spreading into people’s homes. A friend suggested that I fog my car, so I bought a fogger, and after a day, I was flea-free!
— Wilson McCabe, Freelance Writer
HOW TO SPOT FLEAS IN YOUR CAR
Fleas in your car can be a frustrating problem. Spotting them early can help you take action before the infestation worsens.
Here are some signs to look out for a potential flea problem:
| Signs | Description |
|---|---|
| Flea Bites | Red, itchy bumps on your skin, around your ankles. |
| Adult Fleas | Small, dark brown insects jumping around. |
| Flea Dirt | Tiny black specks that look like pepper. |
| Scratching | Pets scratching themselves more than usual. |
| Cocoons | Silken cocoons often found in car crevices or carpeting. |
HOW TO KEEP FLEAS OUT OF YOUR CAR
You can effectively keep fleas out of your car by adopting essential practices. Consider the following strategies to prevent flea infestations:
Use Flea Treatments on Your Pets
Incorporating flea-preventative treatments can reduce the chances of fleas infesting your car. With the vet’s guidance, options include topical treatments and flea collars. These products can kill fleas within hours.
Clean Pet Bedding and Toys Before Traveling
Fleas can easily hide and lay eggs in pet bedding and toys. Cleaning these items before letting them in your car is crucial. Wash bedding in hot water and use dish soap for hard toys. Soft toys can be machine-washed or cleaned with soapy water as well.
Avoid Letting Pets Sit Directly on Car Upholstery
Letting your pets sit directly on car upholstery can create an inviting environment for fleas. Using pet seat covers or blankets can act as a barrier. Opt for materials that can be easily washed or treated with flea repellent.
Inspect Your Pets After Outdoor Activities
After any outdoor activity, inspecting your pets is crucial. Use a flea comb to check for fleas hiding in their fur. Pay special attention to areas like the neck, behind the ears, and near the tail. Be aware of other pests like bed bugs and mites as well.
WHAT TO DO IF FLEAS KEEP COMING BACK IN YOUR CAR
If fleas keep coming back, it’s likely time to consider professional pest control services. Persistent infestations may suggest the need for more exterminators with effective treatments, such as foggers or bug bombs.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s flea control specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.
For more information about our services, visit our service page.