Outside organic matter can temporarily harbor flea larvae. Either dry these areas completely or flood with water to kill flea larvae and eggs. These areas also can be treated with insect-attacking nematodes or insecticidal soaps. Purchase insecticidal soaps in pet stores and hardware stores. Insecticidal dust containing diatomaceous earth and silica aerogel, which is occasionally spiked with pyrethrins, can be used for flea control.
Diatomaceous earth is made from fossilized diatoms and silica gel is a sand product.
These products kill insects by rupturing their skins and absorbing oil and moisture. This causes dehydration and death. Products that contain these products kill all stages of fleas, while those containing only d-limonene kill only adults and larvae. These products can be applied directly to pets or animal bedding. Borates, specifically sodium polyborate, can be used in carpeting to control flea larvae.