How Long Can Fleas Live in Carpet Without a Host?
The life cycle of fleas is divided into different stages depending on their environment, access to hosts, and temperature. Fleas usually live in carpets for about two to three weeks, but they can survive longer if they are provided with a suitable host. Flea eggs are small and can be very difficult to notice, but they will hatch in about two to 12 days.
You can get rid of fleas by vacuuming and washing your bedding daily. You can also sprinkle diatomaceous earth on your carpet after vacuuming it. This is an effective natural insecticide that can be purchased at health stores. Another option is to spray the carpet with lemon juice mixed with boiling water or essential oils. Citrus contains natural antiseptic properties, so it repels fleas.
When a pet is infested with fleas, their eggs will fall to the carpet or pet bedding. Flea eggs can live for up to 12 days in a carpet. Once these eggs hatch, they’ll turn into larvae. The larvae are blind and will hide in the carpet roots. They’ll feed on predigested food.
The adult fleas are capable of living in carpets for up to six months without a host. These parasites live on the blood and feces of their hosts. Flea eggs remain in the carpet until they are dry. The larvae then feed off the adult fleas and jump onto suitable hosts in the carpet.