Does Bleach Actually Kill Fleas?

Fleas are tiny annoyances that can invade your home, irritate your pets, and keep you guessing how to control them. Among the questions people frequently ask is whether bleach kills fleas or is it just another myth.

In this guide, we will dive into the methods of using bleach, how it affects fleas, your pets, household items, and safer alternatives to getting rid of bugs.

Does Bleach Actually Kill Fleas?

Yes, bleach can kill fleas. However, this method doesn’t work always as it’s not the way that’s to destroy pests like fleas completely. Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite which is known to kill adult fleas and their eggs upon direct contact. In most cases, fleas usually hide on carpet fibers, beddings, and other sightly corners that bleach has no access to.

Using a bleach solution on infested areas such as floors, furniture, or plain surfaces can help in the short term, but it will not be enough to eliminate all their life stages, such as larvae and pupae, that are hiding in crevices. For best results, combine bleach with other flea prevention techniques and regular maintenance.

Does Bleach Kill Fleas on Pets?

No. Bleach should never be applied to pets. Putting bleach on your furry pets may irritate, burn, or cause other harmful effects. Pets have sensitive skin that may react badly to harsh chemicals, including bleach. Thus, it is better to utilize flea treatments made specifically for pets.

Some effective methods to get fleas out of your pet are as follows:

• Bathing them with flea treatment approved by a veterinarian.
• Brushing their fur with a flea comb to remove adult fleas and flea eggs.
• Wash their bedding in hot water to kill any hiding fleas or eggs.

6 Ways to Use Bleach to Kill Fleas

1.   Clean Hard Surfaces

Bleach solution is excellent for cleaning hard surfaces, such as floors and countertops. For a safe and effective solution, mix one part of bleach with 10 parts of water. This will eliminate flea eggs and larvae while disinfecting surfaces. Always remember to use it in well-ventilated areas.

2.   Disinfect Bedding and Fabrics

Household items such as bedding and fabrics can hide fleas and their eggs. Washing such items in hot water with a small quantity of bleach effectively kills fleas. It helps in preventing re-infestation by stages of the flea life cycle.

3.   Treat Carpets and Rugs

Fleas may give rise to pupae hidden inside the fibers of carpets and rugs. Spray the carpet with a light dose of diluted bleach and then leave it to dry. For drying, vacuum thoroughly. Repeat this process according to your needs until you entirely get rid of fleas.

4.   Target Yard Areas

Your yard can also be an infested area of fleas. Use bleach to treat very heavily infested areas without spraying it on or being close to plants or grass to prevent damage to your lawn. Flea-free yards translate into better environments for pets. This method will keep your yard flea-free and provide a comfortable environment for your pets.

5.   Soak Infested Items

Also, small stuff around the house, such as pet collars or even toys, can be good spots for breeding fleas. Soak them in a diluted bleach solution for several minutes and rinse them thoroughly. This step will help you remove adult fleas, flea larvae, and eggs effectively.

6.   Mop Infested Areas

You can also mop with bleach mixture on your floor to clean and disinfect areas that are infested. This is a pretty simple and effective way of getting fleas out of kitchens, bathrooms, or basements. Pay attention to the corners and crannies where fleas love to hide.

By applying the above-mentioned tips, you take control of the flea infestation while keeping your home clean and safer from flea extermination procedures.

Concentrated Chlorine vs. Chlorine Pools: Which is Best for Fleas?

While concentrated chlorine, like bleach, can kill pesky fleas on surfaces and around the home, it is not very safe for both humans and pets. It works well in places where the flea infestation takes place, such as floors and furniture, but it should be utilized with safety precautions.

On the other hand, chlorine pools do not help much in killing fleas. Although chlorine in pool water can kill any flea that falls in, it will not affect any fleas in your house or on your pets.

Should I Use Bleach to Kill Fleas?

You can use bleach as a part of flea treatment but do not rely totally on it. If you decide to use bleach, make sure to:

• Apply it on treated parts only, such as floors, carpets, and furniture.
• Make bleach solution through dilution with water.
• Don’t apply bleach in areas frequented by pets where they rest or play.

If the problem is serious, you may consider hiring pest control to eliminate the fleas in the safest way possible.

Is Using Bleach Safe for Humans and Pets?

Bleach can be really hazardous if not properly applied. Inhalation offumes and direct contact with skin may irritate humans and pets. If there are fleas in human hair or in pets fur, never ever try bleach. For flat surfaces, some of the important precautions for the safe use of bleach include:

• Ventilating the treated area during and after use.
• Gloves would help protect the skin against chemicals.
• No pets and children in the treated area until it is completely dry.

Other Remedies to Eliminate Fleas

There are many ways to control fleas effectively without harsh chemicals like bleach. Here are some effective alternatives:

1. Diatomaceous Earth: It is a natural powder that dehydrates fleas while being completely safe for use in infested zones.
2. Vacuuming: Vacuum carpets, furniture, and bedding regularly to keep fleas, their eggs, and larvae away.
3. Hot Water: Wash household items, especially sheets, in hot water to kill fleas and their eggs.
4. Professional Help: Consult professional pest control in case of serious infestation issues for the long-term remedy to such pests.

Conclusion

So, does bleach kill fleas? Yes, but using it is not the best way of treating a flea infestation. While bleach is effective for killing fleas found on surfaces, it can be dangerous to pets and humans.

It is better to go for safer and more holistic alternatives, such as safe flea treatments, diatomaceous earth, and regular maintenance to sustain a comfortable atmosphere for your pets and family members.

FAQs

1. Can bleach kill fleas instantly?

Bleach can kill fleas and their eggs upon contact, but it does not have any effect on fleas that hide within carpet fibers or in hard-to-reach places.

2. Is bleach safe to use around pets?

Bleach is unsafe for pets and it leads to irritation. So, please ensure that your pets are away from the treated area until it becomes entirely dry and well-ventilated.

3. What’s the best way to get rid of fleas?

The best method for dealing with fleas is the synergistic use of all safe flea extermination methods, such as vacuuming, hot-water washing, and professional help.

Want a Long-Term Solution for Fleas? Call Professionals!

Fleas are experts in hiding, which means it’s hard to get rid of them. But don’t worry, Safe Pest is here!
Call us right now, and our pest control team will make sure to keep your house fleas-free.