How do I make sure I don’t get a flea infestation?

Keep your pets protected

If you've got pets, this is where you start. Fleas love animals – they’re warm, they’re fluffy, and they can’t swat them off.

• Use flea treatments regularly: You’ve got options here – spot-on treatments, tablets, collars, sprays. Make sure to choose what works best for your pet’s age, size, and lifestyle - find out which is the best flea treatment option for your pet.

• Check for fleas often: Even if you’re using flea protection, it’s worth running a flea comb through your pet’s coat every now and then. Look for flea dirt (those tiny black specks that look like ground pepper) or the fleas themselves.

• Keep their bedding clean: Wash your pet’s blankets, cushions, and toys regularly on a hot wash. If you can, dry them outside in the sun – fleas hate heat and sunlight.

Hoover like you mean it

Fleas and their eggs can settle into your carpets, rugs, sofas, and even between floorboards. A good hoover is your best friend here.

• Vacuum daily: Especially in warm months or if you’ve had fleas before. Pay extra attention to corners, under furniture, and along skirting boards.

• Empty the hoover straightaway: Otherwise, you’re just giving the fleas a warm place to hatch and re-invade. Empty the contents into a sealed bag and bin it outside.

• Steam clean if possible: High heat kills fleas and their eggs. So if you’ve got a steam cleaner, put it to work on your soft furnishings and carpets.

Wash everything

Got a pet that’s jumped on the sofa or your bed? Assume fleas could be there.

• Hot washes are key – ideally 60°C or higher.

• Dry on high heat if you’ve got a tumble dryer. The heat will help kill any lingering eggs or larvae.

• Don’t forget soft toys, throws, curtains, and cushions.

Keep the garden in check

Fleas can hang out outside too – especially if you’ve got a cat or dog that roams the garden.

• Mow the lawn regularly: Fleas like long grass and shady spots. Keeping things tidy helps reduce hiding places.

• Discourage wildlife visitors: Foxes, hedgehogs, and even squirrels can bring fleas with them. Make sure bins are secure and don’t leave pet food outside.

• Treat the garden if needed: If fleas are a known issue, there are outdoor flea treatments available, but use with care – some can be harmful to pets and beneficial insects.

Be cautious with second-hand items

Picking up a bargain armchair on Facebook Marketplace? Lovely. Just be a bit cautious.

• Give it a once-over: Look for signs of fleas – particularly flea dirt or eggs in seams or under cushions.

• Hoover and clean thoroughly: Before it becomes part of your living room setup.

Act fast if you spot one

• Treat your pets immediately. Even if you find just one flea – don’t wait. It’s probably not alone.

• Hoover thoroughly, wash what you can, and consider using a home flea spray. Some sprays can kill fleas at all life stages and provide protection for several weeks.

• Keep an eye out for more. It may take a couple of weeks to fully break the cycle.