Home Remedy for Killing Fleas Outdoors
Fleas are a natural part of the environment often living in the fur of wild animals. While fleas have their place in the environment they're an unwelcome guest in your home and yard. Chemical-based products help you get rid of fleas but can have an adverse effect on plants, animals and your family.
You can effectively control fleas outdoors with home remedies for killing them. Home remedies get rid of fleas without the use of chemical additives.
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Sprinkle diatomaceous earth outdoors around flea-infested pet areas, on your patio and patio furniture, as well as anywhere else outdoors that fleas have been spotted. Diatomaceous earth is safe for humans, pets and plants but causes fleas to dehydrate by cutting into their exoskeletons. Replenish the diatomaceous earth every few days.
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Pour 2 tbsp. dish-washing detergent into a spray bottle. Fill the remainder of the spray bottle with water. Shake the solution to mix.
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Spray fleas with the soapy water. Treat flea-infested patio furniture cushions and pillows with the soap solution to kill the fleas on the spot. Keep your soapy spray bottle handy on your patio for repeated use.
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Dampen cotton balls with lemongrass essential oil and place them underneath outdoor pet bedding and around your outdoor living space. Lemongrass oil repels fleas and drives them out of living areas while you're in the process of killing them.
Things You Will Need
- Diatomaceous earth
- Spray bottle
- 2 tbsp. dish-washing detergent
- Cotton balls
- Lemongrass essential oil
Tip
Use these steps consistently for four to six weeks to make sure all the fleas are killed. Substitute lavender or peppermint oils to repel fleas. Place a couple of drops of lavender, lemongrass or peppermint oil on your dog's collar to keep fleas away.
References
Writer Bio
Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness instructor and a small-business owner.
Photo Credits
- rural backyard 03 image by fotosergio from Fotolia.com
- rural backyard 03 image by fotosergio from Fotolia.com
- yellow spray bottle image by Igor Negovelov from Fotolia.com
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