I need to make it absolutely clear that the manufacturer of 20 Mule Team Borax makes no claim that it is useful for killing fleas and they have nothing to do with this site. They do not endorse this procedure. Proceed at your own risk.

On the other hand, thousands of people, including myself, have done it and a quick search on the internet will demonstrate that this method is widely used and generally considered safe.

What you will need:

20 Mule Team Borax - This can be found in the laundry soap section of most grocery stores. It is very cheap. Plan on about one box per room but that can vary a lot so allow for some flexibility. (It doesn't go as far as it looks like it would.)

A broom - This is to help work the borax in.

A good vacuum cleaner - If your vacuum uses bags, get lots of spares.

Access to laundry facilities - You'll need to throw some stuff in the wash.

Now for the hard part.

First, treat the dog for fleas. When that is done and when he is out of the area, go around the house and gather up any bedding that he sleeps on. This means your bed too, if he sleeps with you. Don't forget the pillowcases & blankets, it all needs to be washed.

You'll also need to remove any houseplants and make provisions for other pets. If you have a fish tank, cover it. (You might want to turn off the pumps and stuff to prevent them from sucking the borax in. You will have to decide for yourself what to do.) You'd also be smart to move birds, reptiles, etc. to another room. Use your best judgment but you don't want other pets to be exposed to the dust.

Next, get rid of any excess people. You don't want kids crawling through this mess and you really don't want a bunch of people getting in the way. In fact, have them go outside and work on the yard.

Now the fun starts. Get out your 20 Mule Team Borax and sprinkle it liberally on the carpet, just as if it were carpet freshener. Get all of the little nooks and crannies. As long as you are at it, hit the sofa and anything else that may harbor fleas (or their larvae and eggs). You don't have to overdo it but make sure that you get complete coverage. Then, take your broom and work it in as best you can. Repeat until you've done the entire house.

You'll want to let this sit for at least 4 to 6 hours and if you can let it go longer, that is great. I think overnight is impractical unless you can find a hotel but if you can do that, great, go for it.

The next step is to vacuum like you've never vacuumed before.

The good news is that this treatment will last for about a year, maybe longer. This is because no matter how well you vacuum there will always be a little that you miss and that little bit is enough to take care of any stragglers.

Flea Wars