Can Vacuuming Get Rid of Fleas?

Vacuuming is one of the most effective methods to remove fleas. In fact, it kills 96% of the adult fleas, and 100% of the young ones. Ideally, you should use a vacuum cleaner with a brush bar, which has a strong airflow. The bristles of the vacuum must spin fast and hard in order to loosen the fleas. If you use a non-brush bar vacuum, the fleas may get trapped and hang onto the brushes.

However, vacuuming won’t get rid of all fleas, as new fleas may survive for weeks or even months without succumbing to insecticides. To ensure the most effective flea removal method, you need to vacuum the carpet daily for a couple of weeks. This will help stimulate the insecticide-resistant flea pupae to hatch and come into contact with the treatment sooner. If the infestation persists for more than 4 weeks, you should contact a professional pest control company for proper treatment.

Vacuuming also kills flea eggs and larvae. Fleas tend to live on the ground and on furniture, making it easy to vacuum them from these places. When you vacuum the furniture, make sure to vacuum the undersides as well. While the process will kill some adult fleas, you can still get rid of their eggs and larvae by using a crevice tool attachment.