Laundering infested items effectively eliminates these pests. Hot water, detergent, and the agitation of the washing machine combine to create a hostile environment for fleas at all life stages, including eggs, larvae, and adults. For instance, washing pet bedding in hot water (above 130F) is a proven method for eradication.
Regularly cleaning fabrics frequented by pets is crucial for controlling infestations and preventing the spread of flea-borne diseases. Historically, maintaining clean households has been a key element in pest management, long before the advent of modern insecticides. Thorough laundering offers a non-toxic and readily available solution to a common household problem, minimizing reliance on chemical treatments.