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The Best Flea Sprays for Home

  • By InsectCop
  • Last updated on

Although fleas are tiny little insects, they can be very harmful to you, your kids and pets. On top of that, fleas are also very hard to get rid of because flea control requires you treating your pets as well as your own space. Luckily, there are products like flea sprays for home that make it much easier to rid your house or apartment from fleas. And in this article, we cover everything you should know about flea home sprays as well as give you a list of products that could be considered the best flea sprays for home currently on the market.

Although fleas are tiny little insects, they can be very harmful to you, your kids and pets. On top of that, fleas are also very hard to get rid of because flea control requires you treating your pets as well as your own space. Luckily, there are products like flea sprays for home that make it much easier to rid your house or apartment from fleas. And in this article, we cover everything you should know about flea home sprays as well as give you a list of products that could be considered the best flea sprays for home currently on the market.

THE ALL-PURPOSE CHOICE

Vet-Kem Carpet Premise Spray

The power of this spray lies in it’s lightening fastness action and long-lasting effect of killing both fleas and ticks.

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THE POPULAR PICK

Zoecon Precor 2000 Plus

From the moment this spray is applied it will eliminate all existing fleas and prevent flea infestations and buildups for up to 7 months.

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BEST FOR BIGGER AREAS

Knockout E.S.

This flea spray is efficient and safe to use as flea treatment for carpets, furniture and many other household items.

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1

Vet-Kem Carpet Premise Spray

THE ALL-PURPOSE CHOICE

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • Contains chemicals

Review

Vet Kem lives and breathes pest management and pet care; these are what it stands for. What makes the company stand out is that it goes beyond just providing quality solutions for pest infestation inside and outside your home; it takes the all-important extra step to also provide treatments for pets with fleas or ticks.

It puts everyone into consideration; people and animals, because it recognizes that what affects one affects the other. There is no need to look any further than Vet Kem for all your pest control and pet treatment needs. It is here to cater to them and ensure your satisfaction.

It is a tested and trusted name in the pest control industry and it keeps churning out the top of the line products that you can rely on. This is not hype; Vet Kem understands the value of its customers so it strives to keep them smiling and to maintain its trusted name.

Vet Kem Siphotrol Premise Pest Control Spray is one of the fastest acting flea sprays on the market. It has the ability to completely annihilate both flea larvae and the adult fleas and ticks in just 10 minutes. This means that you do not have to wait forever to begin to see the effect of the spray.

No matter how long the fleas have stayed in your home and no matter how mature they are, they cannot resist the power of this spray.

This flea and tick spray not only works with lightening fastness but also keeps working for the next seven months. Not only does it save you the time to keep reapplying it to your home, it also saves you money. All you would need to do is sweep up the dead bugs from time to time.

It is water based so it is easy to use, dissipates fast and can be safely administered within your home; in fact, it is a great flea spray for homes. And it does not just work for homes but also for garages. However, you need to keep it far away from children because it is not safe for them.

One container of this spray will cover a large area of your home, as much as 2,000sq. ft. and as has been mentioned earlier, once you apply it, even if you have to use up one container at once, you are covered for the next seven months.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Vet Kem
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Methoprene, Permethrin, Phenothrin, N-octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide, Piperonyl butoxide
  • Target insects: Fleas and ticks
  • Where can be used: Both indoors and outdoors
  • Kid-safe: No
  • Residue: No
  • Odor/scent: No
  • Other features: Water-based, kills both mature and immature ticks and fleas, large enough to be used for 2,000 sq. ft.
2

Zoecon Precor 2000 Plus

THE POPULAR PICK

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • The spray can nozzle may not work properly

Review

Founded in 1968 and born out of a need to create wellness and a healthy environment by eliminating different types of pests in safe ways, Wellmark International, Inc. has remained relevant and on top in the pest control industry.

It proffers lasting solutions to pest and insect infestations by using bio-rational and chemical means of elimination. It manufactures quality, durable and reliable products which have solved the ever-present problem of pests over the years.

As it looks to keep putting its customers first, Wellmark International goes back to the drawing board in order to present innovative ways to stay on top of the game while not losing its core values. And even though it has been around for more than 48 years, it has no plan of dropping quality for quantity. Your happiness and satisfaction are important to it.

Zoecon Precor 2000 Plus Premise Spray is one of a kind. It can stand beside the best flea treatments out there and still come out strong. If you are looking for the best flea spray for houses, workplace, car and any other place, this is the one for you. It can work in my environment you need it for and give you great results. It is not limited to just your house or garage.

Again, you do not need to get a separate spray for your carpet, furniture, kennel or any hard surface. Your carpet or rug is a good hiding place for fleas and ticks so if you have been looking for how to kill fleas in carpet, look no further. This spray does a good job of it too.

It is large enough to cover as much as 2,000 sq. ft. this is great because it saves you money and time. Not that it is expensive, anyway; each can cost about $19. But when you consider the space it can cover, you would see that you are getting value for money.

And its effect can eliminate any threat of re-infestation in your environment for up to 210 days, which is approximately seven months. Not only does it act fast on both adult and baby fleas, it keeps them off for months and goes beyond fleas and ticks to other insects.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Wellmark International
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Methoprene .085%, Permethrin .35%, Phenothrin .30%, N-Octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide 2.0%, Piperonyl butoxide 1.4%
  • Target insects: Fleas, cockroaches, ants, and ticks
  • Where can be used: Indoors
  • Kid-safe: No
  • Residue: No
  • Odor/scent: Yes
  • Other features: Covers up to 2,000 sq. ft., water-based, works on furniture and carpets, eliminates the possibility of re-infestation for about seven months, can be used commercially
3

Knockout E.S.

BEST FOR BIGGER AREAS

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • Even though the company claims that one container covers about 2,100 sq. ft., some users say it does not reach the advertised footage

Review

Virbac is a company built for the well-being of animals. It has made itself unique and outstanding, not only by making sure your pets and companion animals are healthy but by first paying attention to what you have to say.

What does this mean? Virbac recognizes that, on its own, it cannot know the needs of your pets. It recognizes that it is only you and your vet that have the necessary information about your pets so it first listens to you and chiefly, to your vet and produces parasiticides, antibiotics, supplements and other healthcare products that suit your animals like nothing else would.

This trait makes Virbac stand out and has endeared it to the hearts of many pet owners and veterinarians alike, seeing that someone out there cares about what they have to say and offer concerning their animals. Putting customers first is always a great goal and Virbac has excelled at this. It plans to keep making its customers happy and satisfied for as long as is necessary.

Virbac Knockout Area Treatment Carpet Spray prevents flea infestations and buildups for up to seven months from the time it is first applied. You see, when you have an infestation of fleas, you stand the chance of having numerous nests around your home and a massive buildup from them, no matter how minimal the initial infestation is.

But this spray works to eliminate already existing adult and baby fleas and keeps working to make sure that any laid eggs are entirely wiped out, negating any buildup or future occurrence of infestation.

It is also a great way to kill fleas in carpets. It reaches deep into carpets and rugs; into cracks and crevices and works great on even upholstery and pet beddings to get rid of fleas and ticks that are hitherto hard to reach.

It also works well as a flea spray for house furniture and does not disappoint. You do not have to get another spray for your furniture or carpets. Not all flea sprays are multi-purpose but this one is different in this regard. A one-time treatment may be enough for your house. However, this depends on the level of infestation.

Virbac Knockout Area Treatment Carpet Spray is not messy, leaves no stains, is not sticky in any way and has no odor. It works fast and does a quick work of the burdensome pests.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Virbac
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Permethrin, N-octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide, Pyriproxifen, Pyrethrins
  • Target insects: Fleas and ticks
  • Where can be used: Indoors
  • Kid-safe: No
  • Residue: No
  • Odor/scent: No
  • Other features: Covers 2,100 sq. ft. can be used on carpet and furniture, gets into cracks and crevices, treats active flea infestation

Other products to consider

4

Vet Kem Home Spray

BEST FOR APARTMENTS

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • Covers only a minimal land area – about 300 sq. ft
  • Not safe for children
  • Somewhat pricey for the size

Review

For over 25 years, Vet-Kem has gone above and beyond to ensure that insects and pests are kept under control. It also understands the fact that insects are part of everyday life and have their own roles to play in the overall scheme of things but when it comes to people and animals, they can be harmful and do not understand boundaries.

Because of these, Vet-Kem does not scrimp in churning out innovative and unique methods of pest control and products which make insects run the other way. It equally understands that your pets are dear to you so strives to keep them as safe and healthy from fleas and ticks as possible, with its varying treatments and preventive measures.

If you have never been under attack from insects and pests, both indoors and outdoors, you would not appreciate the value of quality products like Vet-Kem offers. Trusting them with your pest-control needs would not be a mistake because hundreds of people have already done that and are yet to be disappointed.

Siphotrol Plus Area Treatment For Homes is a good way to start and end treatment of flea infestation, just in case you have been searching high and low for the best flea treatment for the house, carpet, and furniture. It is a water-based aerosol; therefore, it leaves no residue that may prove harmful in the long run.

Water-based sprays are also the easiest to dissipate and leave little or no stain behind. There would be no cause to worry about spray stains on your walls or wood surfaces around your house.

It works on a variety of pests and insects beyond fleas; like earwigs, ticks, cockroaches, ants and even bed bugs. So, even if you do not have fleas in your home but have an infestation of any of these other insects, you can buy this spray and trust that it would work just as well on them as it would work on fleas.

Siphotrol Treatment For Homes is safe to be used in your home and atop your pet bedding and living area, rugs, carpets and upholstery without fear of ruining them. This cannot be said for all sprays. It is possible you have been looking for the best flea treatment for homes and are yet to decide on one. This one would do a good job for you without adversely affecting any part of your house, as long as you stick to the instructions on the label.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Vet-Kem
  • Net volume: 24 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Methoprene, Permethrin
  • Target insects: Fleas, ants, roaches, ticks, bed bugs
  • Residue: No
  • Odor/scent: No
  • Other features: Offers a 7-month protection, kills adult fleas and ticks, prevents larvae from hatching
5

PT Ultracide Insecticide

BEST FOR CONTINUOUS CONTROL

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • A bit expensive

Review

BASF uses chemistry to provide lasting solutions to needs that arise from the oil and gas sector to plastics, crop protection, and performance products. Thorough researchers and innovative ideas fuel its stay at the top of the ladder in these industries and sustain the trust it has built over the years.

Love for the environment and sustaining social development rank high on the company’s list of goals. Customer satisfaction is a priority for it because it acknowledges that you come first and without you, there would be no BASF.

It does not just look to cater to your needs today; it keeps itself nimble and dedicated enough to foresee future needs so as to provide for them ahead of time. Your environment, your home, your workspace and everything around you matter to them because if you are comfortable, they are satisfied. A clean and healthy space begins with you and BASF would do all it can to ensure you have all you need to keep up your end of the bargain.

Ultracide-Flea Tick Professional Pest Control works really fast in eliminating fleas and ticks and keeps working to prevent nested eggs and larvae from hatching into fleas for the next seven months. When you use this, you give yourself some breathing space for some months and just sit back to watch it perform its magic on the insects.

Not only does this save you time and money, it also minimizes the possible risk of having to leave some harmful chemicals in the air and inhaling them inadvertently, even though they are unseen.
It also gives a protective shield to your home from any further attempt by fleas from the outside to infest it again in the future, keeping it cocooned for the next seven months.

It is safe to be used within your home and atop items inside it, in your workplace, car and at the vet’s. It is also made to be used in buses, boats, trucks, offices, supermarkets, kennels, hospitals, hotels and different types of industrial and commercial edifices, without fear of any adverse effect.

A single container of Ultracide Flea and Tick Aerosol can cover a whopping 2,600 sq. ft. of space. Your apartment and your neighbors could benefit from just one can of spray. Or you could use it more than once if the initial application does not entirely take care of the infestation after seven months.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: BASF
  • Net volume: 591.47 mm
  • Active ingredients: Pyriproxyfen, Pyrethrins, Permethrin, n-Octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide
  • Target insects: Fleas and ticks
  • Where can be used: Indoors
  • Kid-safe: No
  • Residue: Yes
  • Odor/scent: No
  • Other features: Covers up to 2,600 sq. ft. works fast, provides flea control for up to 210 days
6

Adams Plus Carpet Spray

BEST MULTI-PEST CHOICE

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • The spray nozzle may become unstable after some time

Review

It is simply a coincidence that the name of the company, Adams, portrays the length of time it has been in the pest control and management industry. For so many years, Adams has set the pace in the creation and production of pesticides for gardens, cleaning agents and treatments for insect and bug infestations.

There are ideas that are born only out of the passion for what you do and you can’t grab by force knowledge you can’t get by just tagging along. The knowledge that matters comes with years and experience; Adams has both. It has put in a lot of efforts, skill, innovation, dedication, and perseverance to get to the top of the ladder.

But that is not the priority. It’s the fact that every customer that graces its floors, in any of its outlets worldwide, leaves smiling and satisfied with the quality of service and products gotten. It is not a coincidence that from government agencies to commercial parks and private homes, its products work their miracle, ridding these places of unwanted, tiny and sometimes winged visitors.

Rest assured that Adams has got your back covered in the area of pest control and treatment. That is its number one goal, anyway: making you comfortable.

Adams Plus Flea & Tick Carpet Spray is deadly to all sorts of insects and bugs, especially to fleas and ticks. It kills off every active adult flea and even the baby ones and then goes right ahead to attack and decimate flea eggs that are hatching along with larvae.

Its long-lasting property and the presence of Insect Growth Regulator ensure that, in the future, you do not suffer a reoccurrence of an infestation; it quarantines your home against it for about seven months, that is, if it is applied as a full treatment.

It also is poisonous to carpet beetles, spiders, silverfish, cockroaches, water bugs and a number of others. It makes a quick work of them, no matter where they hide, because it can easily get into cracks and crevices on the floors, walls, behind boards, in your pets’ beddings, on the carpets (if you have been worried about how to get rid of fleas in carpet — It can be really burdensome), rugs and so many other places.

A single container is enough to cover about 2,000 sq. ft. Depending on how big your house is or how intense the infestation is, you could use up one container or save some for later, just in case you need it. It is economical and effective.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Adams
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Permethrin, N-octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide, Pralethrin
  • Target insects: Fleas, ticks, spiders, cockroaches and so on
  • Odor/scent: No
  • Other features: Gets to hard-to-reach places, one treatment last for 7 months, can be put on different surfaces
7

Wondercide Spray

BEST NATURAL OPTION

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • Could get sticky, especially when used on furs

Review

Wondercide takes holistic methods and creates innovative and fantastic ways to use them on pets while killing off every bug or insect harmful to them. Over the years, it has kept going back to the drawing board to make sure that pets are healthy and safe so that you can be safe and comfortable, too.

Its human-grade, all-natural products have been used, and are still in use, all over the world. Because they are different, in that they keep the bugs off while also helping your pets relax and giving your home a wonderful scent, people are willing to try them (and have gotten lasting and positive results).

Variety is the spice of life. You may already have something that works for you but what does it hurt to add relaxation for your pets, and by extension, you; into the mix? Wondercide uses natural oils which can also be used in aromatherapy; it soothes both man and animal. Safety, well-being, and satisfaction are priorities to this brand as exemplified in the product under review.

Wondercide Flea and Tick and Mosquito Control Spray for Cats Dogs and Home is an all-natural flea killer, made from lemongrass and cedar essential oils. Octopamine is a necessary chemical in fleas and ticks which enable their hearts to beat, regulates metabolism and helps their movement.

When it is absent, these bugs cannot live. Without even trying, cedar oil impedes the circulation of this chemical, repelling them and if a drop of the oil touches them, they die. Due to this powerful property, cedar oil is great for the treatment of homes and environments hit by flea and tick infestation.

The fact that it is natural also means that there is no trace of toxicity in it, making it safe for your kids and your pets. Even though you have to keep an eye on them to ensure they do not lick it, inhaling it or touching surfaces on which it has been used is not harmful to them.

It has a wonderful scent – lemongrass. As you use the spray, it spreads its lovely fragrance all over the house and has a calming effect on both you and your pets – you all need the therapeutic touch. You can equally use it on the furs of your pets without any adverse effect. It soothes dry and blotchy skin and stops pets’ itching and uncomfortable scratching.

If you have mosquitoes, use this spray around your home, especially the bedroom. It will get rid of them and fast. Rest assured that it will not stain your beddings, mattresses, furniture or floor.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Wondercide
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Cedar and lemongrass oils
  • Target insects: Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes
  • Where can be used: Indoors
  • Kid safe: Yes
  • Pet safe: Yes
  • Odor/scent: Yes
  • Other features: All-natural, doesn’t stain, can be used on the furs of cats and dogs, can be used as a substitute for pesticides
8

Home Pest Control

THE NATURAL RUNNER-UP

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • Unfortunately, it does not work on all types of bugs – ineffective on boxelder bugs

Review

Eco-Defense is known for creating natural quick action products which successfully battle all sorts of bug and insect infestation. Its success in using natural ingredients has set its name in stone and earned it the trust of lots of people everywhere.

One of its major reasons for using natural ingredients is to ensure that you and your pets do not get in the way of harmful chemicals and pesticides while keeping the environment clean and healthy.

Most of its products are also organic and certified, making them safe and secure for kids and pets alike.

Eco-Defense has set itself up to protect and defend man, animal and the earth from every form of contamination and from its products, it is succeeding to a large extent. Its passion has fueled its constant search for new and unique ways to keep bringing out natural and organic products which would do their intended work and add favorably to the environment.

Eco-Defense Organic Home Pest Control Spray is a dependable flea spray for house and yard. It can be used both within and outside the house without fear of harming anyone. Because of its organic and natural makeup, there is no toxicity and no additive. It is a safe alternative to every other pesticide, insecticide and chemical spray you may want to use. It can also be used atop surfaces without any negative reaction to it.

It acts fast on every bug and insect it targets. Within a few hours of application, you will begin to see effect all the place. Depending on the level of infestation, one container of this spray would do its job without hassles.

Not only does it act fast, it also lasts long; creating a protective shield for your house and pets from a reoccurrence. It repels insects and bugs thereby keeping them out effectively. It does not just work on fleas and ticks, it also works on scorpions, earwigs, ants, cockroaches, silverfish and a wide array of other insects.

Eco-Defense promises to give you your money back if this spray does not work within sixty days. The company is absolutely sure of its products so gives ample time to test this one and see for yourselves. You have nothing to lose and this is one of the best features so far, right?

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Eco Defense
  • Net volume: 16 oz.
  • Target insects: Fleas, ticks, scorpions, earwigs, mites and so on
  • Where can be used: Both indoors and outdoors
  • Kid safe: Yes
  • Pet safe: Yes
  • Other features: Made with natural organic ingredients, acts fast, money back if dissatisfied
9

Vet's Best Flea and Tick Spray

BEST PLANT-BASED FORMULA

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • One container may not be enough to cover the entire infested area

Review

Vet Best informs you boldly that your pet’s health is not confined to just having amazing skin; it goes much deeper than that. And a few truer words have been spoken. A lot of pet owners assume that once the skin of their pets is glowing and their fur shining, then all is well. More times than not, they are wrong.

Vet Best produces a line of pet products that touch different areas. It provides skin and fur products as well as supplements and advice that go beneath the skin. And they are all natural. You do not need to worry about ruining your pet’s skin or fur. You do not have to get finicky about what it is ingesting. These products are carefully thought out and created with love, understanding and passion.

Vet Best also takes into consideration that its customers would have varying dispositions and needs so there is something for everyone. Whether you do not want to spend much, you worry about your pet’s allergies, you are concerned about convenience or just plain choosy; there is something for you.

Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Home & Go Spray is made from natural and non-toxic. It is safe for use on surfaces and leaves no marks or stains on those surfaces. When used, it suffuses the house with the scent of peppermint, a fragrance that agrees with both man and animal.

When it comes in contact with fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, it kills them fast and keeps them from returning to create an infestation yet again. The thing about it is that it completely repels mosquitoes; they do not come near any arena where it has been sprayed. But if the mosquitoes are already within your house, it kills them quickly.

It further destroys every flea egg and larvae which are nesting in any area of your home. When you do a full treatment, using an entire container at once, it permeates every crack and crevice and gets to them wherever they may be hiding and kills them. It prevents them from hatching and keeps them off for some time.

It gives a soothing feeling while doing the work you bought it for. You can use it for your pet’s sleeping area and on the floor.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Vet’s Best
  • Net volume: 6.3 oz.
  • Active ingredients: Peppermint oil, eugenol, sodium lauryl sulfate
  • Target insects: Fleas, mosquitoes, ticks
  • Other features: Repels mosquitoes
10

EucoClean 3-in-1

DECENT NATURAL ALTERNATIVE

What we like:

What we don't like:

  • May leave a sticky residue, according to some users

Review

Born out of a deep need to present thoroughly cleaned houses and offices, beyond the cleaning ways that is done by most cleaning outfits the world over, Olga Diehl established EuroClean in 2002.

Being a European who immigrated into the US, she used her native methods of cleaning, which differ in various ways from the traditional American cleaning ways, and got results which stood her out among many others in the same business.

Now, because of the number of people who love and appreciate her passionate and structured cleaning methods, Olga has employed different people into EuroClean who have the same zeal and passion for extraordinary cleaning.

Together, they are not only cleaning but also producing products which thoroughly clean and equally eliminate every unwanted insect or pest which stand in the way of cleanliness.

EuroClean adds freshness, enjoyment, and fragrance to your life through different means, alongside cleanliness. It goes beyond cleaning to health and wholeness. You get more accomplished in your home when you trust EuroClean with your household cleaning and purifying.

Euroclean 3-in-1 Bed Bug, Flea, and Dust Mite Killer & Defense System is a natural flea killer. It is made with the essential oil found exclusively in the Australian eucalyptus and has no chemical in it. Its killing ability is not restricted to only fleas but also bed bugs, spiders, lice, ants, moths, and dust mites.

Its all-naturalness makes it extraordinarily safe to be used on carpets, suitcases, kitchen surfaces, tables, handles and even on mattresses and beddings without having any adverse effect. Now you have a safe way to rid your home of fleas on your mattresses and beds, in the event you have been looking for how to get rid of fleas in bed.

One of the beautiful things about this flea spray is that, while it has the ability to kill and clean, it gives off a wonderful scent. It can be used as a deodorizer and as a purifier for your air conditioner, giving your home a pleasant fragrance.

It gives protection against a further spread of any infestation, without any additive. There are no chemicals, artificial fillers or pesticides which could prove harmful to both man and animal. Even though it is deadly to bugs and insects, it is safe for humans and animals.

This feature also means that it is eco-friendly, eliminating any chances of contaminating the air and earth around you when you use it. Many users acknowledge that it’s an amazing product and would fit well in the category of best flea spray for home.

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: EuroClean
  • Active ingredients: Australian Eucalyptus Essential Oil
  • Target insects: Fleas, ticks, bed bugs, lice, spiders, ants and so on
  • Where can be used: Indoors
  • Odor/scent: Yes
  • Other features: Removes mold, purifies air conditioner, cleans surfaces well, gives off a good fragrance, eco-friendly

All about fleas

First of all, you should know that they are harmful, even though they are very tiny. Second, you should know that you do not want them anywhere in your house, especially if you have pets. Third, they are bloodsuckers.

Having said that, fleas are tiny parasitic insects that do not have wings and so do not fly. They feed exclusively on the blood of animals and birds. The flatness of their bodies enables them to move inconspicuously through the feathers or furs of any host they choose and their mouths have parts that enable them to easily pierce the skin and suck blood.

Even though it is not common, human beings can be bitten by fleas also. But this would only happen as a last resort.

Fleas from your dog or cat may latch onto your skin and suck blood; this is extremely rare, however.

So you do not need to worry so much about being unduly bitten by them.

No matter how sharp the claws of your pet are, they hardly ever successfully and effectively get rid of fleas. They make your pet very itchy and due to the intense scratching over time, your pet may end up drawing blood or even causing a deeper harm to itself.

How to tell if there are fleas in your home

How can you tell if you have fleas? Fortunately, detecting fleas is simple, as these insects leave a trail of evidence in their wake that is easy to spot! If you think you may have fleas in your home, keep an eye out for the following signs of infestation.

Flea dirt

The first thing to do when looking for fleas is to thoroughly check your pet’s coat and their bedding for signs of the insects. If you see lots of small, roundish, black flecks on the skin or fur of your animal, this could be flea dirt – AKA, flea poop. Flea dirt is a mix of excess ingested blood and other waste products that the flea leaves wherever it goes and is a sure sign of an infestation.

Live or dead fleas

Fleas are instantly recognizable from their mighty jump. If you see bugs hopping around in the fur of your pet, their bedding or on your carpets or furniture, there’s a good chance they’re fleas!

Flea eggs

Flea eggs are harder to spot than flea dirt. This tiny, smooth eggs are deposited in the fur of animals, but will quickly drop off to land on carpets and furnishings around your home. Check your pet’s bedding for white dots, as this could be an indication that fleas are present and breeding in your home.

Flea bites

The bites of fleas are easy to spot on your skin. These little red bumps are most commonly found on the ankles and lower legs, often in clusters or lines of 3 or 4. They are maddeningly itchy but won’t swell up as much as mosquito bites typically do.

Itchy pets

Itchy, scratchy pets are the number one sign of a flea infestation. If your cat or dog is scratching a lot, fidgeting or chewing at their fur round the clock, check them for fleas immediately. Part their fur and look for live fleas, flea dirt or eggs in their coat and on their skin. You can also use a flea comb; a fine-toothed comb that can be used to pull the insects out of their fur for closer inspection.

How to know if your pet has fleas?

Knowing if your pet parrot or your beloved dog has fleas or not is pretty easy. Even though they cannot be seen as easily as a fly, there are some signs that give them away and below are a few of them:

  • Unusual scratching, biting and licking of different body parts. Fleas have the tendency to latch onto animals and hide in areas which are not easy to reach, especially for the animals. Fleas can either crawl into the feathers or furs of your pet or they can jump, with the ability to reach as far 50 times their body size, in one leap. When you see your pet frantically trying to scratch, lick or bite hidden areas of its body, that may be your first sign that it has been infested with ticks.
  • Loss of hair or feathers. In the quest to satisfy the intense itching brought on by fleas, your dog or any other pet may pull out its fur or feathers but this is just one way that this could happen. Some animals just have a severe allergic reaction to fleas and may react by losing hair or feathers. You may need to take it to your vet to check for fleas, just to be sure.
  • Flea waste. Sometimes, you may notice some small objects falling off of your pet’s body, objects that are mostly dark. If you suspect your pet of having fleas, you may want to check the objects because they could be waste passed by fleas which are usually made up of blood which was digested. How would you know? You could pick up some of those dark objects and place it on a white surface, then wet them. This is to make it easy to see the real color. If they become reddish-brown, then you have an infestation.
  • Gums growing pale. When a person or an animal is anemic, one of the ways it shows is through the paleness of the gums. Since fleas feed on the blood of animals, it could show in the gums of your dogs or cats, especially if the infestation is severe. If for some reason, you cannot check your dog’s or your cat’s gums for this, you could visit the vet.
  • Red blots on exposed skin. The underbelly of most animals is usually without hair. So if you notice strange red blots or patches that were not there before, you could have fleas on your hands.

Some cats and dogs can have allergic reactions to the saliva of fleas and that is one way the allergy could show. If you see it, consult your vet.

Another important thing to note is that fleas do not remain exclusively on your pets. If not properly checked and on time, your home may become infected, too.

Useful information

Fleas have the tendency to hide and hold onto carpets when they jump from animals. So as you are treating your pets, you may need to check around your house for fleas.

But don’t worry; this review will show you the best way to get rid of fleas and the best flea spray to use.

What to use to get rid of fleas?

There are various methods of getting rid of fleas if you happen to have an infestation. You can even develop some home remedies for fleas in the house if you know what to do. For example, you could mix some detergent and water in a shallow dish and place it on the floor with some light pointed directly into the water. Water and detergent are said to be poisonous to fleas.

The downside to this is that you would have to wait for the fleas to hop into the bowl before they are killed. Even though light attracts them, it’s a gamble whether they would actually take the bait.

One of the fastest and most efficient ways to get rid of fleas in your home is to use a flea spray. Apart from a natural flea killer like diatomaceous earth powder, flea sprays also work like magic when used well. However, some flea sprays cannot be used on your pets; they could be toxic and deadly for them. The first and best approach to treating your pet of a flea infestation is to take it to the vet.

How do flea sprays work?

Most flea sprays designed for use in the home are contact killers. These products instantly take down any insect they land on and can be used to quickly kill live fleas and larvae lurking around your home.

The most effective flea sprays contain insect growth regulators (IGRs), insecticides that disrupt the growth and development of flea larvae. IGRs may also prevent flea eggs from hatching, helping to prevent further outbreaks of baby fleas. By killing larvae and interrupting the insect life cycle, flea sprays containing IGRs can be used to dramatically reduce the number of fleas in your home.

Many flea sprays for the home also contain an active ingredient to exterminate adult fleas on contact. These will instantly kill adult fleas, helping to relieve your pets (and you) from those itchy bites.

What are the most common active ingredients in flea sprays?

The best flea sprays contain a combination of ingredients to tackle fleas at all stages of the life cycle. Some of the most commonly used IGRs and adulticides are listed below.

  • Insect growth regulators (IGRs). IGRs are insecticides that mess up the growth and development of flea larvae, preventing them from reaching adulthood and breeding. They may also prevent flea eggs from hatching. Two of the most commonly used IGRs in flea sprays for the home are pyriproxyfen and Methoprene, both of which are highly effective in reducing flea populations.
  • Contact killers. The most effective flea sprays will combine an IGR with a contact killer, an insecticide that takes down live fleas instantly. Permethrin is a widely-used and highly effective flea killer and is especially deadly to fleas when combined with other insecticides like fipronil.
dog lying on vet table

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Things to consider before choosing a flea spray

  1. Where it should be used? Some sprays may be used for both the indoors and the outdoors. But others may have the caution of where it should strictly be used to avoid poisoning. This is why it is necessary to read the labels well before buying. If you buy a flea spray that is meant to be used for just the outdoors for an indoor infestation, you would be looking for trouble. There is a reason it is meant for just the outdoors. And vice versa; many a household flea sprays do not work outdoors
  2. You also have to consider where you can spray it within your home without it having any negative effect. Not all sprays are safe to be used on furniture or on beddings. You may even be tempted to use it on your pet’s living area. If it is too toxic, you may end up with two problems instead of one. Note that some sprays are made specifically for use on pets, especially dogs. Those are safe to be used on them but you have to be sure before buying
  3. Is it safe for people to inhale, especially children? If you have kids at home, you may want to check before using any flea spray around them
  4. How well does it work? Being toxic doesn’t always equal effectiveness. As much as you don’t want a flea spray that is dangerous to health, you also do not want one that does nothing except take your money and cloud the air
  5. Affordability. Some flea sprays go for as low as $9. But don’t let the price keep you from getting the best flea spray for house and yard if you need it. Another factor that could affect the price is the amount of spray you may need. This would depend on the level of infestation. However, it’s still cheaper than having to hire a professional

Advantages of using flea sprays in your home

  • Easy to use. A big part of the appeal of flea sprays is how easy they are to use in your home. Simply point and spray to immediately exterminate live insects, and thereby reduce the number of fleas in your home. Sprays containing IGRs can also halt the development of any larvae they come into contact with, repenting them from reaching egg-laying adulthood.
  • Effectively kills larvae and adult insects in your home. Flea sprays can kill adult fleas on contact, immediately reducing their numbers in your home. Those containing IGRs also target flea larvae, preventing them from developing fully. This breaks the flea life cycle, helping you to effectively tackle your flea infestation.
  • Generally safe to use around children and pets. Most flea sprays designed for use in the home are entirely safe to use around children and pets. However, it is important to always read the product label thoroughly and follow all recommended safety precautions.

Disadvantages of using flea sprays in your home

  • Flea sprays often have no residual effects. Although flea sprays can work well to instantly reduce the number of fleas in your home, they are often contact killers with no residual effects. This means that, while they are great as an on-the-spot treatment, they must be combined with other pest control strategies if you hope to eradicate a large flea infestation.
  • Flea sprays must be applied regularly. Most flea sprays are contact killers, meaning they only kill the fleas they actually land on. For every flea, you see there are sure to be dozens more hiding nearby, so it would be almost impossible to kill all of them in one session. This means that flea sprays must be reapplied regularly and must be used in combination with other control methods for effective flea extermination.
  • Potential safety risks. Although the risks of using flea sprays in your home are minimal, caution must be exercised at all times when using any chemical around your pets. Some insecticides, such as permethrins, are very effective for reducing numbers of fleas in your home and are completely safe to use around dogs. However, cats are highly sensitive to these chemicals and may have a deadly reaction to the spray. With all animals, there is also a slight risk of an allergic reaction. Make sure to monitor your pets closely after you use any new product in your home for signs of illness.

How to use a flea spray?

Fleas normally hide in dark and hidden places which are not easy to reach, not just on animals but also in your home.

So, if you are ready to spray those blood suckers away from your home, you would first have to thoroughly sweep and clean your house. Then, you can begin to spray.

Depending on the level of infestation, you may need to apply the spray over and again before you can completely get rid of fleas.

Be sure to focus a lot on hidden areas, not just open areas. Target, amongst other places; under your seats, in cracks and crevices, between boards and so on.

For your furniture, there are special sprays for them, even though a flea carpet spray can equally be used on them (there are flea carpet sprays, just in case you have been asking yourself how to get fleas out of the carpet). However, just as you can get one made especially for your carpet, you can also get a flea spray for furniture.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it. The buying guide and the review of the top ten flea sprays inform you on what to look out for. It is now up to you to either act fast or let the infestations continue; no need to spend so much on a professional. Even if it’s not for you, you could tell a friend or neighbor. It’s all available for your pleasurable choosing.

1 Comments

Tammy Lee Seger

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Great article. It is full of very helpful information.

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