There are several household products like boric acid and diatomaceous earth that can be used to deter fleas. Along with thoroughly vacuuming flea-infested areas, this can be an effective solution to control flea populations. But often, Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) are the most effective chemicals to eliminate fleas for good. These chemicals can be safely used indoors and as surface treatments. The common chemicals used in IGRs are methoprene and pyriproxyfen.