Fleas can be a big problem for you and your pets. So, controlling them is crucial for you. It may be possible that you bought some chemicals from the market to kill fleas. But is it necessary to do so? Why don’t you iron your garments?
Does ironing kill fleas?
Ironing at hot temperatures can be an effective way to kill fleas. Although fleas thrive comfortably in humid temperatures, they can’t endure too hot temperatures. For better results, wash garments before ironing them.
Read the whole article to know more. Are you ready? Let’s start.
Table of Contents
What Are Fleas?
Fleas are tiny insects that live on blood mainly. They don’t have any wings and can multiply their numbers quickly. Scientists say that female fleas lay around 20 eggs at once.
They can jump as high as 6 inches. Therefore, hiding isn’t a big problem for them. Your pets may be their favorite choice because of their fur, as it allows fleas to hide easily. Because of the hiding facility, they prefer dark-colored clothes instead of light-colored.
If they don’t get blood, they won’t live on your clothes for longer than 24 hours. So, clean your clothes regularly to save you and your pets.
A warm environment is just like heaven to them. However, some fleas survive through winter too.
By the way, fleas aren’t that strong. So, if you’re careful, you can control this insect with little effort.
Are Fleas Harmful to Humans?
Fleas don’t live on humans. Instead, they prefer to live on pets like cats and dogs. Scientists say that there are more than 2500 different types of fleas in the world.
Fleas may bite you sometimes. That’s why you may notice red bumps on your skin. Sometimes, fleas can be dangerous for you. Take a look-
- Fleas can trigger allergic reactions.
- It can cause plague and typhus.
- Irritated skin and skin may turn red.
- Skin infection.
- Itching on skin.
Are Fleas Harmful to Pets?
Fleas can carry tapeworms. If your pet eats fleas, it may get tapeworm. In this case, you may notice white and seed-like shapes on the face of your pet. Then, consult with a doctor or expert veterinarian.
Temperature to Kill Fleas
Fleas can survive in any environment if they get enough food supply. Their favorite food is blood. That’s why you may notice fleas on your clothes and pets.
However, controlling them isn’t a big problem. Ironing can be one of the best ways to control this parasite. Most of the fleas die at temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. However, elevate the temperature to around 140 degrees to clean your clothes properly.
Most importantly, never forget to wash them before ironing. Use the hottest and longest cycle as fleas can’t survive rough movements. But, check the garment care label before doing it. Otherwise, you may end up with faded clothes!
Ironing to Kill Fleas
First things first, ironing garments at the hottest possible setting can remove fleas effectively. I recommend you set your steam iron around 140 degrees Fahrenheit and use it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Take longer time for your dark-colored dresses as they hold fleas more. Polish sensitive spots of those dresses carefully. However, don’t press too hard. You can use a pressing cloth to protect the smoothness of your garments.
However, ironing isn’t powerful in removing fleas completely. That’s why you need to wash and dry them carefully before ironing. You can use bleach for washing. It works excellently on fleas.
It may be possible that your garments react negatively with bleach. In such cases, use antimicrobial detergent and wash with your washer’s hottest and longest cycle. For fabrics that can’t withstand high heat, use the highest possible temperature that they can endure.
After removing them from the washer, dry them in hot settings. Again use approximately 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It’ll remove fleas and their eggs perfectly.
Remember, many fabrics, like spandex, polyester, and acetate can shrink at high temperatures. So, check the garment care label to identify the optimal temperature for them.
Now, I believe you’re a little bit curious about steaming. Does steaming kill fleas? Yeah, steaming works better on fleas. Use steam bursts of your iron and apply them to the infected areas. However, if the steam isn’t powerful, the final result may not satisfy you.
Other Ways to Kill Fleas
Wash And Dry Clothes Regularly
I’ve already with you that washing and drying at hot temperature settings can kill fleas along with their eggs.
During the wash cycle, add bleach if your clothes can withstand this material. Otherwise, use the highest and longest cycle for your clothes.
During the drying phase, toss some ice cubes with your clothes to protect clothes from high heat. Or, use wool dryer balls.
Spray With Vinegar
Vinegar is an essential cleaning element in every home. Luckily, it works excellent on fleas too.
- First, prepare a solution with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Take this mixture to a spray bottle.
- Apply it on carpets, household items, and under your furniture.
Direct Sunlight
Fleas always prefer a humid environment. Therefore, keep your windows open to enter sunlight into your house. The UV ray will destroy fleas and their eggs.
Vacuum Daily
Fleas find a comfort zone on rugs and carpets where your pets live. When you vacuum daily, you may be able to remove almost 95% of fleas.
There are many vacuum cleaners in the market that can cost you around $100. They last longer and offer mesmerizing results.
Use Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Use food-grade DE to remove fleas from your home. If you use toxic ones, it may affect your pets and kids negatively.
First, apply this material to infected areas and wait a few days. After waiting for two or three days, vacuum clean those areas.
Rather than using chemicals to control this parasite, use this natural product. Give more importance to the environment. Now!
Use Salt
Like Diatomaceous earth, salt is another natural remedy against fleas too.
- First, throw salt on rugs and carpets before sleeping.
- Then, apply a vacuum cleaner to those areas.
Use Fleas Repelling Plants
Some plants can remove fleas effectively. Use these plants by windows and carpets to get more protection.
The fleas repelling plants are-
- Rosemary
- Lavender
- Eucalyptus
- Lemongrass
- Mint
Can I Wash Flea Eggs Off?
Flea eggs aren’t sticky. So, wash or steam your beddings, carpets, and rugs in the highest possible setting. Keep the temperature above 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can use powerful detergent to get better performance. Even mopping or vacuum cleaning can fight flea eggs too.
Will Shampooing My Carpet Kill Fleas?
Yeah, shampooing carpets can kill fleas. Carpets are the nesting haven for fleas. So, use shampoo to clean carpets.
It would help if you used carpet cleaning shampoo to do it. However, it isn’t as effective as vacuum cleaning.
Final Thought
You may find chemicals in the superstores or online to kill fleas. However, avoid those as they may negatively affect the well-being of your family members.
Use natural means like sunlight, vinegar, lemon juice, and fleas repelling plants. Moreover, wash and iron your garments regularly. Finally, never forget to check your closets or drawers.
So, which method is your favorite? Please leave it in the comment.
Lastly, kill fleas more and more!
