You Have To Be Tough On Fleas: Why Home Remedies Aren't Always Effective

Late summer may not seem like a dangerous time of year, but these minuscule monsters can be out, about, and infesting homes all winter long. Flea problems are easy to spot:

• Itching pets can experience hair loss, pale gums, and red skin patches.
• Fleas are easily spotted on light-colored animals.
• Flea dirt (tiny black clumps of flea feces) may be apparent on pets, in pet bedding, or anywhere else a flea infestation is located. If spraying water on this ‘dirt’ creates a reddish-brown smudge, this is a strong sign that fleas are surviving, thriving, and feeding on pets and people inside your home.

D-I-Why? 

Once the initial signs of a flea infestation show up, many folks turn to home remedies and DIY methods of flea control Some of the reasons for this include:

• The idea that DIY is cheaper 
• The idea that DIY is healthier or more natural 
• Internet fads or ‘get flea free quick’ articles

The majority of DIY methods for flea removal are ineffective at best and can be counterproductive.

• Messy essential oils smear, smudge, and can stain certain materials. 
• Smelly vinegar or peppermint sprays leave less-than-pleasant aromas around your home and can't get rid of fleas in all stages of development.
• Ineffective topical ointments will only treat the symptoms of the problem, not the root. 
• Buying many different items, trying over and over to get rid of fleas can end up being more expensive in the long run than turning to professional pest control right away. 

Trying to get rid of fleas on your own is often an exercise in futility. You may think you have gotten rid of the problem, only to have it pop up again and again as flea eggs hatch and reinfest your home. Professional advice and treatments are the best way to protect the ones you love from the dangers of flea infestations year round.

Be Free from the Fleas 

DIY efforts may appear to do the same work as professional abatement and fumigation, but the reality is that pest control companies can exterminate the root of the issue, while home remedies may only kill adult fleas. For true flea control on your property, collaborate with your vet and local pest control professionals for a treatment plan that’s right for you. 

Arrow Pest Control is proud to offer New Jersey customers the best flea treatments available on the market today. Reach out to our friendly professionals today to learn more about how we can best serve you. Don’t let the promise of DIY flea protection leave you at risk for infestation. Call our office to request your free inspection and be on your way to being flea free!