How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Car

By Mary Lougee
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How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Car
Image Credit: Jovanmandic/iStock/GettyImages

After a flea-infested pet rides in your car and transfers fleas to it, eradicate all four stages of fleas by vacuuming the car, applying an insecticide and spraying an insect growth regulator in the vehicle.

Things You'll Need

  • Handheld vacuum

  • Steam cleaner (optional)

  • Long-sleeved shirt

  • Long pants

  • Disposable gloves

  • Bulb dust applicator

  • Flea killer powder

  • Insect growth regulator

Step 1

Remove all items from your car including pet beds and blankets. Launder the washable items in hot water and dry them on a high-heat setting.

Step 2

Remove car mats and place them on the ground next to your vehicle.

Step 3

Put on a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and disposable gloves to protect your skin from insecticides.

Step 4

Vacuum the floorboards of your car with a handheld vacuum, paying close attention to underneath the seats. Vacuum both sides of the floor mats on the ground. Empty the vacuum dust cup outdoors in a garbage can. You can also use a steam cleaner if you have one.

Step 5

Open a dust applicator and pour flea killer powder in it to fill the bulb about half full. Screw the lid on tightly and shake the bulb applicator. Point the applicator tip downward and squeeze it to apply the powder insecticide in your car. Insert the applicator tip into crevices and cracks on the floor and the seats of your car to target flea eggs and larvae. Treat both sides of the car mats outside on the ground.

Step 6

Shake a can of insect growth regulator spray. Use a sweeping motion to apply a light, slightly damp mist on all surfaces inside the car. Treat the floor mats on the ground on both sides in the same manner.

Step 7

Close the doors of your car. Allow the insecticides to remain in the car for 30 minutes, then open the car doors and allow the car to air out.

Step 8

Repeat Steps 6 and 7 if new fleas hatch in 7 to 10 days.

Treat Your Dog

Remove the fleas from your dog so he doesn't transfer fleas from his body into your car again. Use a chewable or topical monthly flea and tick preventative that contains one of these insecticides for flea control:

  • Spinosad
  • Permethrin
  • Selamectin
  • Fipronil
  • Lufenuron

Warning

Remove clothing if you accidentally get insecticides on you. Rinse your skin with a strong stream of water for 15 to 20 minutes to remove it from your skin. Some people experience allergic reactions to these products.

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