How do I get rid of fleas in my flat?

How to get rid of fleas in a flat: An expert guide

• Step 1: Treat your pet

  This is a non-negotiable. If you have a dog or cat, treating them properly is essential, even if you don’t see fleas on them right now.

  Use a vet-approved flea treatment

  Choose a reputable flea treatment recommended by your vet. Avoid cheap or unregulated products, especially online imports as they can be ineffective or even harmful. Click here to find out how to spot a fake flea treatment.

  Your options include:

  • Spot-on treatments (applied to the skin), like Itch Flea Treatment for Cats and Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs.

  • Oral flea tablets

  • Flea collars (long-lasting, but must be high quality)

  💡 Important: Never use dog flea treatments on cats. Some contain ingredients that are toxic to cats.

  Bath your pet

  This isn’t essential but it can be helpful as it can work to remove adult fleas immediately but does not replace proper medication. If your pet is comfortable with baths:

  • Use a pet-safe flea shampoo

  • Let it sit for the recommended time

  • Rinse thoroughly

• Step 2: Vacuum like you mean it

  Vacuuming is one of the most effective flea-control tools. Vacuuming removes fleas, eggs, and larvae, and helps stimulate dormant fleas to hatch, making treatments more effective. 

  What to vacuum

  • Carpets and rugs (especially edges)

  • Sofas and chairs

  • Skirting boards

  • Floor cracks

  • Under furniture

  • Pet sleeping areas

  Empty the vacuum immediately after use and seal contents in a bag and dispose of it outside your flat.

  ⏰ Vacuum daily for 7–10 days, then every few days after.

• Step 3: Wash everything you can

  A hot wash (above 60ºC) can kill fleas at every life stage. Wash all pet beds, blankets, and soft toys on the hottest wash the fabric allows. Anything fabric-based that your pet touches should be washed:

  • Bedding

  • Throws

  • Cushion covers

  • Clothes on the floor

  • Curtains (if your pet rubs against them)

• Step 4: Treat your flat with flea products

  Now it’s time to treat the environment.

  Use household flea treatment

  Look for products designed specifically for home flea control, not just insects in general.

  Two common options:

  • Flea sprays which are targeted and great for smaller flats, like Itch Flea House Spray

  • Flea foggers/smoke bombs which cover larger areas but require you to leave temporarily

  Make sure the product:

  • Kills adult fleas

  • Contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) to stop eggs from hatching

  How to use

  1. Vacuum thoroughly first

  2. Remove pets and people

  3. Treat carpets, rugs, furniture, and edges of rooms

  4. Allow to dry completely before re-entering

• Step 5: Repeat

  This is where most people slip up. Flea eggs can hatch weeks later, so one round of treatment isn’t enough. Consistency is what breaks the flea life cycle.

  Your follow-up plan

  • Continue vacuuming regularly

  • Reapply flea spray after 2–3 weeks if instructed

  Keep your pet on flea treatment for at least 3 months