Do I Need to Wash my Clothes After a Flea Bomb?
If you’ve had a flea bomb in your house, you may wonder if you need to wash your clothes. The answer is yes! Even if you only bomb one room, the fleas can quickly spread to the rest of your house.
That’s why it’s essential to wash all of your clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water as soon as possible. This will kill any fleas that are hiding in your laundry.
You should also vacuum your entire house thoroughly and immediately empty the vacuum bag. You can help prevent a flea infestation from taking over your home by taking these simple steps.
Fleas can torment vermin when left to inhabit the house. However, you can exterminate these insects with a well-carried-out flea bombing exercise.
Meanwhile, you should know that flea bombs pose more trouble than the problems raised by fleas. But we, at some point in time, would do anything to rid these vile creatures. So you would not do the job yet after introducing the highly-potent aerosol!
First, you must ensure that there aren’t any insects remaining – whether dead or alive – on the property or your pets. And also, you have to clean the sprayed environment. Many people often ask: do I need to wash my clothes after a flea bomb? Do I have to vacate my home during and after spraying, among other questions?
For the safety of the inhabitants (humans and pets) in the newly flea-bombed house, we offer tips, recommendations, and step-by-step guides on how to wash clothes and do general cleanings after using a flea bomb.
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First, What Are Flea Bombs?
Flea bombs are a type of bug bomb, nebulizer, or fogger, as we call them. So we can say they are bug bombs used to exterminate fleas.
And what are bug bombs? Bug bombs are aerosol-based insecticides that contain propellants that release their entire contents at once to fumigate an area. These products with full discharge valves are often used in homes or nearby to kill cockroaches, fleas, and other pests.
Do I have to vacate my home during and after spraying?
First, it is recommended that all people vacate the place at activation. But, following the staff’s instructions, you may observe your professional exterminator’s work from a distance.
Considering that the application of the products is carried out using equipment that generates a beautiful breeze, we advise that all humans and pets evacuate a treated property for at least 2 hours.
What to Do Before Activating a Bug Bomb in Your House or Company?
We recommend that if you plan to paint or wash the walls, you should do that before applying a bug bomb. If done after the service, it may neutralize the long-term effectiveness of the insecticide.
Outdoors should prune the green areas and ensure they are free of garbage or debris.
The dishes and kitchen utensils must be inside a cabinet or cupboard. However, if you have a severe problem, you must vacate the cabinets, place the dishes on a table or the Patio, and then cover them with a tablecloth or sheet, which you must wash after the aerosols dissipate.
Also, the kitchen must be free of prepared food. If there are foods, they must be in the refrigerator or sealed containers to not take risks with the products applied.
You do not need to empty the closet; the clothes can remain in place since the bomb aerosols do not stain or smell.
In bathrooms, personal items must be in plastic bags.
When the property is an office or company, generally, you need no additional preparation unless it is a particular case. And in the case of the industrial dining room with a severe problem of insect plague, put the food in cold chambers and take out all utensils and crockery at the dining tables, leaving the cupboards as accessible as possible.
What do I do with my pets?
In the case of having pets, be it dogs, cats, birds, or rabbits, they should not be present. However, in the case of fishes, turtles, snakes, or any small fish animal, it is recommended to cover it very well so that the insecticide does not enter.
How to Choose a Pest Control Company?
Ask for the Company’s Permits.
When looking for a pest control company, it is essential to ensure that they are registered and have the relevant licenses.
Pest control companies with licenses will always use accredited chemicals, while unlicensed companies may use low-quality products, which can be harmful.
Using inferior chemicals to control pests could lead to resistance, costing you more in the long run.
Therefore, always ask for the company’s permits before hiring them.
Read the Company Reviews.
You’re looking for a pest control company that has had good reviews. Here are some things to look out for:
- -A functional website with a review page, where clients post feedback, and you can find out if the company is worth your money. -Look for a local pest control company with an office near you so you can quickly contact them if you have any problems.
- -Check out online directories such as Google My Business and Yelp to find reviews from past clients.
- -When reading reviews, pay attention to how recent they are and whether or not the company responds to negative feedback, and this will give you an idea of how they handle customer service.
- -Finally, ask around! Talk to your family, friends, and neighbors to see if they have any recommendations.
Now that you know what to look for in a pest control company, it’s time to start your search! Try typing “pest control + your city” into a search engine like Google or Bing. This should give you a good list of companies to choose from.
You can also check out online directories such as Google My Business and Yelp. When reading reviews, please pay attention to how recent they are and whether or not the company responds to negative feedback, and this will give you an idea of how they handle customer service.
Finally, ask around! Talk to your family, friends, and neighbors to see if they have any recommendations.
Finding a pest control company doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to find a company that suits your needs.
Check the Company’s Customer Relations.
Pest Control is a big decision, and you’re not the only one who has to live with it. Before selecting, you need to ensure the company can meet your needs.
To find out if they have what it takes, here are some things you should ask them:
- -Are they licensed, insured, and bonded?
- -How long have they been in business?
- -Do they have a good reputation with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer organizations?
- -What do their customers say about them?
- -Are they a member of any professional pest control associations?
- -What kind of pesticides do they use, and are they safe for humans, pets, and the environment?
- -How do they propose to get rid of your pests, and will the treatment be effective?
- -What kind of guarantee do they offer?
- -Can they provide references?
Asking these questions will help you weed out the amateurs from the pros. But even if a company passes the test, you should do one more thing before making your final decision.
You can learn a lot about a company by the way they treat their customers. A good company will take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns, and they will also be happy to provide references upon request.
If you get the runaround or feel that your questions are being dodged, move on to another company. Good customer service is essential in any business, but it’s essential when dealing with something as important as pest control.
When you’ve found a company that meets the above criteria, you can be confident that you’ve found a reputable, professional pest control company that will do the job right.
Ask about the Company’s Safety Measures.
Many pest control chemicals can harm human and animal health if not applied properly.
A good pest control company should be willing to discuss the toxicity of its pest control measures and explain the measures taken to reduce environmental risks and prevent unnecessary exposure and accidents. Ask them:
- -What are their safety procedures?
- -How do they protect against exposure to chemicals?
- -What are the risks associated with the chemicals they use?
- -How do they ensure the proper application of pesticides?
The safety of your family, pets, and the environment should be your top priority when choosing a pest control company. Ask about their safety procedures and ensure you are comfortable with their answers before hiring them.
Ask about the Qualifications.
The safety of your family, pets, and the environment should be your top priority when choosing a pest control company. Ask about their safety procedures and ensure you are comfortable with their answers before hiring them.
Qualifications of the technician servicing your home or business are essential when selecting a pest management professional. To operate in most states, technicians must pass a state-administered exam covering pest biology and control methods.
Some states require technicians to complete continuing education credits annually to maintain their licenses, and many companies also require them to complete company-sponsored training programs.
These additional qualifications can give you confidence that the technician servicing your property has the knowledge and skills necessary to do the job safely and effectively.
When looking for a qualified pest control company, you should ask about the technician’s qualifications and whether they are licensed and insured.
It would help if you also asked about the company’s safety procedures and how they protect against chemical exposure. Please make sure you are comfortable with their answers before hiring them.
Compare as Many Pest Control Companies as Possible.
Are you looking for the best pest control company? Don’t get stuck on just one. Compare them all!
Thousands of pest control companies exist in the market today, varying in quality, price, and more. Don’t be afraid to compare them all to make sure you find a good one. And, don’t forget, never compromise quality for cost!
When finding a pest control company, you shouldn’t just settle for the first one you come across. There are thousands of different companies, so you must take the time to compare them in terms of quality and price. Don’t make the mistake of compromising quality for cost.
The best way to find a good pest control company is to compare as many as possible. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting the best quality and value for your money. Never settle for the first company you come across – take the time to compare different options before making a decision.
Now that you know the questions to ask, ensure to interview several pest control companies before making a decision. Ask about their safety procedures, the qualifications of their technicians, and how they protect against exposure to chemicals. Please make sure you are comfortable with their answers before hiring them.
How Long Is the Fumigation Going to Last?
The duration depends on the degree of infestation and the conditions of the place. We recommend that you carry out two sprays a year in houses. And in the case of grocery stores, food stores, or restaurants, the duration of application should be shorter. Everything depends on the state of order and cleanliness maintained.
Do the Flea Bombs Smell or Stain?
Generally, insecticides have a characteristic smell. You can find flea bomb products with a very low odor developed by recognized special laboratories for urban use. Also, applying them according to the manufacturer’s instructions should not stain or cause foul odors. However, you shouldn’t have the “if it doesn’t smell, it doesn’t kill” perception.
Recommendations to Follow After Using a Flea Bomb.
After using a flea bomb, here are some recommendations to follow:
- Wash all kinds of clothes or fabrics at minimum temperatures of 65ºC and incomplete cycles in the washing machine.
- Remember that fleas don’t live outside of a host for long, so you must ensure you don’t put your clothes back in the closet until the treatment is finished.
- Avoid direct contact with the treated surfaces and keep pets in ventilated places to avoid contact with the treated surfaces as well.
- After the recommended time has passed, clean all surfaces with soap and water.
- Inspect your home regularly for any new flea activity.
Please consult a pest control professional if you have any questions or concerns.
Answering the Frequently-asked Question: Do I Need to Wash My Clothes After a Flea Bomb?
Should I cover my clothes if I use a bug bomb?
Well, the answer to these famous questions is a definite yes! It would help if you washed all the clothes, stuffed animals, beds linens exposed to the insecticide.
Although many experts and flea bomb manufacturers often advise that you cover household materials, equipment, and facilities such as electronics, kitchen items, indoor aquariums, etc., with cover materials such as leathers or fabrics. However, the chemical will not contact your fabrics is almost inevitable. So, you have to find a way to clean the sprayed environment meticulously and wash all clothes affected by the flea bomb.
Meanwhile, upon entering the property for the first time after the activation of the flea bomb, you have to, first and foremost, ensure adequate ventilation.
In addition to the fact that you have to wash all the clothes, bed linens, blankets throw, and animals’ bed linens blankets stay in the house that may have been exposed to the flea bomb, you have to clear your cabinets out of the chemical treatment inside them. During this period, avoid using disinfectant products such as bleach or ammonia.
Suggestions on Washing Clothes Contaminated by a Flea Bomb or Any Pesticide.
After using the pesticide, remove all clothing materials, and put them in a plastic bag. However, ensure you keep the bag closed until it is time to wash it. When removing clothes from the bag, treat the bag the same way as if it were an empty pesticide container.
You have to wear waterproof gloves while handling pesticide-contaminated clothing, and you have to carry out washes on affected fabrics every time and immediately after you activate these pesticides. Doing it this way, the pesticide residue will be easier to remove and prevent accumulation in the clothes.
How to Wash Clothes Contaminated by a Flea Bomb?: The Pre-rinse Step.
Use one of these three methods:
- Rinse clothes separately in a tub or any suitable wash equipment. Then discard the water in the sewer.
- You can dry the clothes outside the house. But avoid areas where children or pets play.
- Pre-wash contaminated clothing in the washing machine with detergent.
Rinse items twice before washing. You are rinsing before washing is especially effective for removing pesticide particles from clothing, mainly when using powder-based insecticides.
Tips on How to Wash Clothes Affected by a Flea Bomb.
Wash your clothes stuffed separately from the rest of the family’s clothes.
Wash Size.
Do not wash many items at once.
Water Level.
Use the highest level in the washing machine. This allows the water to rinse or remove the pesticide from the fabric. So, no more pesticide residues will accumulate on the clothes.
Water Temperature.
- Use the hot cycle water in the washing machine – at least 60º Celsius
- Use the warm water rinse cycle.
- Avoid using cold water because it is ineffective in removing pesticides from clothing.
The Cycle for Washing.
Use the normal 12-minute cycle in the washer
Detergent.
- Use a strong detergent. However, use the amount recommended in the package instructions.
- Meanwhile, you should choose the type of detergent depending on the type of pesticide that contaminated the clothing material. Granular detergents effectively remove pesticides such as gas-based aerosols soluble in water.
Additives.
Neither bleach nor ammonia removes pesticides. While you can use them as an aid in washing or as a disinfectant, you can’t use them together.
Multiple washes.
Wash heavily contaminated clothing at least twice.
Drying.
To prevent dryer contamination, dry clothes by hanging them outside if possible. Also, sunlight can break down many pesticides.
Rinse the washer.
To rinse the empty washing machine, run it for another total cycle with hot water and detergent. Also, clean the material you use to pre-rinse. These precautions prevent contamination of the family’s clothing with pesticide residues.
Washing of other items.
After use, thoroughly clean everything washable inside and out, including boots, gloves, hats, goggles, and aprons. Use hot water and detergent.
Other Tips for Washing Clothes Affected by a Flea Bomb.
As many pesticides vary in physical and chemical composition, the recommendations given here and based on research are widespread. However, contact your local County Extension office for information on specific pesticides.
It has been found that applying starch on the cloth surface acts as a pesticide trap. Conversely, research indicates that starch can optimize pesticide removal when washing contaminated clothing.
Be aware of when and what types of pesticides are used
Also, always wear waterproof gloves to avoid exposing the skin to the pesticide while handling contaminated clothing.
Burn or bury garments saturated with concentrated insecticides or pesticides that are very toxic. Please take off your clothes, put them immediately in a plastic bag, and close the bag tightly. Meanwhile, discard the empty bag and pesticide cans after washing the clothes.
Remove contaminated clothing in outside areas or at the entrance of the building. If you have used a granular pesticide, shake your clothes outside. Next, empty the pockets, cuffs, and hems.
Researches show that pesticide residue can pass from contaminated garments to other garments if washed and stored together. So keep contaminated clothing away from the rest of the family’s clothing.
Also, always wear the same clothing when handling insecticides. Furthermore, remember to keep contaminated clothing away from other clothing before, during, and after washing.
After activating the product, remove contaminated clothing, including underwear, as soon as possible. Take a shower and wash your hair before putting on clean clothes.
CAUTION! The use of some products may be illegal in your state or country. Of course, ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS ON THE SAFE USE LABEL OF ANY PESTICIDE.
Safety Precautions for the Use of Aerosol Insecticides With a Total Discharge Valve.
First and foremost, the improper spray of insecticides can cause a fire or explosion, as they are generally flammable. In addition to this risk, there is a risk of disease if you don’t leave the site during the activation. Also, the same can occur if you enter the site without properly venting the site.
Preventing Pests Comes First.
It would be best not to use aerosol insecticides as a single method to fight fleas and their eggs or bed bugs. The most effective way to reduce or eliminate the problem of pests and the risks of pesticide use is to prevent them from entering your home. In this regard, the measures you should take in your home and surroundings are the following:
- Eliminate food and water sources (such as leaking pipes) and
- Destroy shelters and sites where pests reproduce (such as trash and plant remains)
Safety Precautions.
When non-chemical pesticide prevention methods are ineffective for pest control, you can use a chemical pesticide. One product type is an aerosol insecticide with a total discharge valve (nebulizer). These products are usually effective if used properly.
However, they can present risks to your home and family if misused. So, before using an aerosol insecticide with a total discharge valve in your home or building, read and follow these safety tips and common-sense precautions.
Do Not Use More Aerosol Insecticides Than Necessary.
Often, accidents due to the use of aerosol insecticide with a total discharge valve (nebulizer type) occur in cases where the user releases too much mist, thus causing the accumulation of flammable vapors. Meanwhile, aerosols come in different sizes. So, read the label carefully to determine the appropriate measure for your space.
To calculate the habitable area’s volume, multiply each room’s weight, width, and length. Then add all the volumes. For example, a 10-foot-by-10-foot room with a standard 8-foot ceiling has a volume of 800 cubic feet.
You should not apply aerosol insecticides in small, enclosed places, such as dressing rooms, cabinets, or under countertops or tables. However, using an aerosol insecticide in an enclosed space may cause the product to explode and cause personal injury or property damage.
Keep Aerosol Insecticides Away From Sources of Ignition.
Secondly, accidents are more likely if large quantities of aerosol insecticide directly contact an ignition source. For instance, a flame, pilot lights, or a spark from an electrical appliance cycle on and off (for example, a refrigerator or an air conditioner). The United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends placing the aerosol insecticide at a distance of six feet or more from any ignition source.
If you need help extinguishing the pilot lights, contact the public gas company or the local management company.
Notify Family Members, Neighbors, and Any Other Person Who May Enter the Property.
In addition to notifying everyone that they should not enter the area, be sure to place the labels that come with the product on the doors. Also, you can make danger signs yourself if they do not come with the product. This will reduce the risk of another person entering the house or room and accidentally coming into contact with the released gas.
Leave the House, Apartment, or Other Building to Be Treated Immediately.
Breathing spray vapor can be harmful. Thus, the safe use of these products requires that all people and pets leave the place and close the doors after unloading the spray insecticide. However, do not re-enter until the indicated time elapses.
Typically, this time is between two and four hours, as said earlier. However, note that returning to the property earlier may cause illness or even poisoning.
Ventilate the Area Once You Return.
When you have returned to the treated area, open the doors and windows to ventilate the remaining gases. Placing fans on the doors could help ventilate the area and remove the gases.
Take Other Common-sense Precautions.
Do not use more than one spray insecticide per room, as a standard 6 oz. The spray is sufficient to treat up to 25 by 25 feet of clear space.
Be sure to remove all children, pets, toys, and uncovered food from the area to be treated.
Also, read the label and follow the instructions carefully.
Keep the product out of the reach of children, for example, in a locked cabinet or shed.
Finally, teach children not to touch pesticide products and other household chemicals.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API