Getting Rid of Fleas Naturally

As spring rolls around and we are all excited for the lovely weather we know we're about to get, but then a flea catches a ride on a family pet and life changes. Unfortunately, flea treatment is not only expensive, but toxic and many people are searching for natural ways to rid their pets (and their homes) of fleas.

The first step is to vacuum everything, including the underside of furniture and walls. It's important to vacuum even if you can't see anything. Not only do you have to get rid of animal hair and the fleas, but you also have to get rid of the flea larva that you can't see. After you've gone over your entire home, it is important to keep up with the vacuuming at least twice a week. It's also important to treat everything at the same time. It doesn't do you any good to give a flea treatment to your dog, but not to clean and treat your home. The fleas will keep coming back until you clean and treat everything from top to bottom.

When you have finished vacuuming, empty out the vacuum back or replace it. It is important that you do this if you have fleas, or the fleas will likely come back. You can make your own flea remedy in your kitchen. Mix 3 cups of diatomaceous (DE) with half a cup of boric acid. Sprinkle the powder evenly over carpets, paying close attention to closets and underneath furniture. Be sure to wear a safety mask and remove pets and children from the home while doing this. Do not breathe in this dust! Use a broom to work granules deep into carpet and allow to sit for two days. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder.

According to eHow, another great recipe to try is to use 8 parts cleaning powder to 1 part table salt and to follow the above procedure. DE can be sprinkled directly in areas where animals frequent, but don't bother applying the powder to areas that receive direct sunlight, because fleas thrive in shady areas. Give infected dogs and cats a flea bath and gently use a flea comb on the animals to help remove fleas. The yard can also be treated with a substance, which can be purchased at a lawn care or garden center for getting rid of fleas.