Finding fleas in your bed is never fun, but it’s more common than you might think, especially during flea season in Australia. So, whether your pet sleeps beside you or not, fleas can easily make their way into your bedding, mattress seams, or even under the covers.
Not sure if you're dealing with fleas, bed bugs, or something else entirely? Here’s how to spot the difference and what to do next.
1. You’re Waking Up With Itchy Red Bites
One of the most common fleas in bed signs is small, itchy bites. Usually in clusters or straight lines. These often appear on your ankles, lower legs, waist, or arms after sleeping. Unlike mosquito bites, flea bites tend to be more grouped and intensely itchy.
Worried it might be something else? Our guide on the difference between fleas and ticks can help rule out other culprits.
2. You’ve Found Black Specks or Flea Dirt on Sheets
Bed fleas often leave behind flea dirt, tiny black specks that look like ground pepper. If you spot these on your sheets or pillowcases, try placing them on a damp paper towel. Flea dirt will turn reddish-brown because it contains dried blood.
These specks are often found in areas where your pet sleeps or rests. If you're seeing them frequently, it's time to act.
3. You See Flea Eggs or Larvae
Noticing tiny white grains on your sheets? These could be flea eggs on bed sheets—they’re oval-shaped, about 0.5 mm, and slightly sticky. As they hatch, you may also spot flea larvae on bed surfaces, which resemble tiny white worms.
This stage of the flea lifecycle often hides in mattress seams or carpeted areas near your bed. They're a red flag that you’re dealing with more than just a few stray fleas.
4. You’ve Spotted Fleas or Something That Looks Like Them
Adult fleas are fast, tiny (about 2–3 mm), and dark brown. They jump rather than crawl, which can make them hard to catch. If you're not sure what does a flea look like, check our full guide for a closer look.
Sometimes people confuse bed bug fleas or even sand fleas with standard fleas. And yes, how to tell if sand fleas are under your skin is a real concern in some coastal areas, though they’re far less common than typical pet fleas.
5. Your Pet Has Fleas - And Sleeps in Your Bed
If your dog or cat is already scratching or has been treated for fleas recently, there’s a strong chance your bed has some too. Even if they don’t sleep in your bed, fleas can easily jump from pet to furniture to mattress.
Need help dealing with the root cause? You might be wondering, do groomers get rid of fleas? Many do, especially if they offer medicated baths or flea treatments.
What To Do If You Have Fleas in Your Bed
Now that you’ve identified the problem, here’s how to get rid of fleas in bed fast and effectively:
- Wash all bedding in hot water.This kills eggs, larvae, and adult fleas.
- Vacuum thoroughly, especially around mattress seams, baseboards, and soft furnishings.
- Use flea sprays or powders that are safe for use around beds.
- Treat your pet with a reliable flea prevention product.
- Clean or replace pet bedding and keep it out of your bed during treatment.
If you’re still unsure, and especially if you are asking, “I found a tick in my bed, are there more?" The answer is possibly. It’s worth treating your home and checking your pet for fleas and ticks.
Prevention Is Easier Than Treatment
Don’t wait for the itching to start. Fleas thrive during flea season in Australia, especially in humid areas and multi-pet households. The best way to avoid bed fleas is to keep your pets protected all year round.
- Use regular flea preventatives
- Avoid letting untreated pets sleep on your bed
- Keep your home clean and your pet groomed
- Learn the difference between fleas and ticks to catch problems early
Shop Flea Treatments at Healthy Pet Co.
At Healthy Pet Co., we make flea prevention easy with carefully selected products, fast delivery, and expert advice. Whether you’re dealing with a few fleas in your bed or a bigger infestation, we’re here to help you reclaim your space.
