Fleas are tiny six-legged parasitic creatures that survive by feeding on your pets like dogs, cats, etc. They are downright gross, and persistent, so removing them is not so easy.
Probably, you have heard about the use of bleach to eliminate fleas. Is it true? If yes, then how?
Do not worry anymore, we are here to rescue you from all the doubts!
Important Note: If you're tired of pests and want a reliable solution, then you should definitely consider seeking help from a professional pest control company. DIY solutions can be effective, but if you're dealing with a significant pest infestation, you don't want to rely solely on DIY methods. Pest control companies typically don't charge huge fees. You can fill out this form to receive free quotes from the top local pest control companies, and compare the quotes and see for yourself. Then, finally, your pest problems will be eliminated for good.
You will get information about whether bleach can kill fleas or not, and if yes, how you can do it, and the precautions you need to take while doing so, in this article.
| Properties of Bleach | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Strong oxidizing agent | Can break down organic matter, including flea exoskeletons and their eggs |
| Contains sodium hypochlorite | Can kill a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi |
| Breaks down into hypochlorous acid and sodium ions | Hypochlorous acid can kill bacteria and viruses, making it an effective disinfectant |
| Can be corrosive to certain materials | Can be used to whiten and brighten fabrics and other household items |
| Can cause skin and eye irritation if not used properly | Can be used to disinfect surfaces, including kitchen counters and bathroom fixtures |
Does Bleach Kill Fleas?
The answer to this query is yes. You can use bleach to kill fleas.
Bleach is effective against adult fleas and flea eggs, and larval stages. You can use Clorox, commonly found in your home, for killing fleas.Â
It is effective in wiping out their entire population by getting rid of adults and flea eggs. So, it will help you to eliminate them from your home.
Will Mopping with Bleach Kill Fleas?
Mopping with Clorox might seem to be an effective method to kill fleas. But it will not help you to get rid of them completely.
It is so because fleas are not only present on the floor and carpets but also on your pets, beds, and even cracks in the floor and walls.
So, it would be best to use a bleach solution and spray it on all the possible sites where fleas can be found. It will kill all the fleas present in your home. You can also use this solution for outdoor use in your yard.
How to Use Bleach to Eliminate Fleas? Step By Step Guide
Now that you know that bleach can kill fleas, you must want to know how to use it.
Step 1: Prepare a bleach solution
Mix one part bleach with nine parts water in a spray bottle or bucket. This will create a solution that is strong enough to kill fleas but not so strong that it will damage your household items.
Step 2: Vacuum the area
Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove any adult fleas and eggs. Pay special attention to areas where your pets spend most of their time, such as their bedding or favorite spots on the floor.
Step 3: Spray the bleach solution
Spray the bleach solution onto the areas where you have found fleas, such as carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Be careful not to saturate the area, as this can damage your household items.
Step 4: Let the solution sit
Let the bleach solution sit for at least 10 minutes to ensure that it has enough time to kill the fleas and their eggs.
Step 5: Rinse the area
After 10 minutes, rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove any remaining bleach residue. Be sure to rinse the area well, as any leftover bleach can be harmful to pets and humans.
Step 6: Repeat as needed
If you still see fleas or their eggs after the first treatment, repeat the process until the infestation is gone. It may also be necessary to use other methods in conjunction with bleach to fully eradicate the infestation.
Step 7: Clean up
Dispose of any vacuum bags or other materials used during the cleaning process to prevent the fleas from returning.
Can Bleach Kill Fleas Instantly?
Yes.
Bleach is nothing but sodium hypochlorite which is a corrosive chemical.
Concentrated sodium hypochlorite can cause skin burns, and diluted bleach can cause skin irritation. It is its effect on human skin.
Clorox can burn and kill fleas and bugs, and other insects instantly. The diluted bleach solution might take a few seconds to do the same.
Precautions to Take While Using Bleach to Kill Fleas
- Never use concentrated Clorox to kill fleas. Always dilute it by mixing water.
- Do not spray the bleach solution on your pets. It can harm their skin. Pay a visit to the vet if bleach comes in contact with your dogs or cats.
- Remember to not use a bleach solution on sensitive surfaces. It might corrode and destroy them.
- Wear a mask and gloves before spraying the bleach solution. Visit a doctor if you experience skin burns or irritation due to contact with bleach.
- Remember to use the spray solution at regular intervals to get maximum effect.
- Clean the house a few hours after using a bleach solution to remove dead flea bodies. Please do not do it immediately as you can contact bleach and get burns.
- Find all the cracks and crevices in your home and spray extra bleach solution there as it is the most probable hiding spot for fleas.
Final Words
We recommend you do the needful as soon as possible to remove fleas, no matter how disgusted you feel. Do not procrastinate, as the problem might grow with time.
Feel free to contact the exterminators to get rid of fleas if you cannot do so on your own. We hope that you got the desired information about using bleach to kill fleas. Thanks for reading!
