Does humidity affect fleas?

Does humidity affect fleas?

Yes, humidity affects fleas, and by quite a lot. 

Fleas, like most insects, have something called an exoskeleton, which means they need their surroundings to regulate their body temperature and moisture levels. They don’t drink water like we do; instead, they absorb moisture from the air, meaning when the humidity levels are right, they’re in paradise.

High humidity really equals the perfect environment for fleas to thrive. They can stay hydrated and active, which helps them reproduce more effectively. The entire flea life cycle is actually dependent on humidity. When the air is humid, the eggs are more likely to hatch, and the larvae can grow without drying out. But, if the air is too dry, the eggs might not survive, and the larvae can desiccate before making it to adult flea stage. So humidity is a bit of a life or death situation for fleas.

What humidity do fleas live in?

Ideal humidity levels for fleas are between 50% and 95%. A broad range, but fleas are adaptable. Fleas are actually able to easily carry on their life cycle between these humidity levels. They do have a sweet spot though—where they thrive the most—which is usually between 70% and 85% humidity. This level of moisture in the air allows fleas to be active, feed, and reproduce efficiently.

Homes with central heating unknowingly create these ideal conditions. You cracked up the heating? Got a fire going in the front room? Any warmth you add to the house, combined with any moisture in the air, tends to lead to the perfect breeding ground for fleas. So in summer months when humidity levels are naturally higher and the sun is blazing, it’s a lot harder to prevent fleas from breeding. 

On the flip side, fleas struggle in environments where the humidity drops below 50%. When the air is too dry, their eggs and larvae start to dry out and die off. Even adult fleas find it difficult to survive in such conditions because they need the moisture to keep their bodies functioning. So, if you’re living in a dry area or it’s the middle of winter with the heating cranked up and the air dry as a bone, you might have a chance against these pests.

Can humidity kill fleas?

Interestingly enough, the answer is yes, but it’s not the humidity itself that does the job—it’s the lack of it.

Fleas are highly sensitive to moisture levels, so when they drop below a certain point, (particularly below 50%) it doesn’t end well for them. A lack of moisture can really disrupt the flea life cycle for example, flea eggs need moisture to hatch, and larvae require it to develop into adults, so without this means fleas will die.

Adult fleas also struggle with low humid levels. They can quickly become dehydrated in dry conditions, eventually leading to death. Humidity alone won’t get rid of a flea infestation, but reducing moisture levels in your home can certainly make it much harder for fleas to survive and reproduce.

Rule of thumb, whatever humidity you don’t like, chances are that fleas love it. Not a fan of moist and warm environments? Tough luck, fleas will be thriving. You’re best of preventing fleas from being there in the first place. Try our big guns combo of Itch Flea treatment for Dogs or Itch Flea treatment for Cats, and Itch Flea Home Spray for Homes to square up against fleas, wherever they are!