Fleas are wingless, blood-sucking parasites that feed on the blood of mammals or birds. They can easily infest your home, even if you don't have any pets. Although pets are the most common source of fleas, other animals like rodents, raccoons, squirrels, and rabbits can also carry fleas into your home. Fleas can also hitch a ride on your clothing or shoes.

Can You Get Fleas in Your House Without Pets?

Signs of a Flea Infestation

There are a few signs that you may have a flea infestation in your home:

1. Flea bites: Flea bites are small, red, itchy bumps that typically appear on the legs, ankles, or arms.

2. Seeing fleas: You may see fleas jumping on your skin or crawling through your hair.

3. Flea dirt: Flea dirt is small, black specks that look like pepper. You may see flea dirt on your floors, furniture, or bedding.

How to Get Rid of Fleas

Getting rid of fleas can be a challenge, but it is possible. Here are a few steps you can take:

1. Vacuum your home thoroughly: Vacuum your carpets, floors, and furniture thoroughly. Be sure to vacuum the areas where your pets sleep and play.

2. Wash your bedding and clothes in hot water: Wash your bedding, clothes, and pet bedding in hot water (at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit) to kill fleas and eggs.

3. Use a flea treatment: You can use a flea treatment to kill fleas on your pets and in your home. There are many different types of flea treatments available, so be sure to read the label carefully before using one.

Preventing Fleas

There are a few things you can do to prevent fleas from infesting your home:

1. Keep your pets on a flea preventative: The best way to prevent fleas is to keep your pets on a flea preventative. There are many different types of flea preventatives available, so talk to your veterinarian about which one is right for your pet.

2. Keep your home clean: Fleas thrive in dirty, cluttered environments. Sweep and vacuum your home regularly to remove pet hair and other debris that fleas can feed on.

3. Seal up cracks and holes: Fleas can enter your home through cracks and holes in your foundation or walls. Seal up any cracks or holes to prevent fleas from getting inside.