How are lice removed in a house? - briefly
Treatment involves applying an approved pediculicide to affected individuals and combing out nits with a fine‑toothed comb. All bedding, clothing, and washable items should be washed in hot water and dried on high heat, while non‑washable surfaces are vacuumed thoroughly.
How are lice removed in a house? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations within a home requires a coordinated approach that targets the insects on the host, in the environment, and on personal items.
First, treat every affected individual. Apply a pediculicide lotion or shampoo containing 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % malathion, or a dimethicone‑based product, following the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and exposure time. After the recommended period, rinse thoroughly and repeat the treatment in seven to ten days to kill newly hatched nymphs. Use a fine‑toothed comb to remove live insects and nits from the hair, working from scalp to ends in sections. Comb after each treatment and again after seven days.
Second, decontaminate clothing, bedding, and towels. Wash all washable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the lifespan of a lice egg, to prevent hatching.
Third, treat the living environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor seams thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Apply a residual insecticide spray approved for indoor use to cracks, baseboards, and upholstered furniture, observing safety precautions such as ventilation and keeping pets and children away during application. For non‑chemical control, use steam cleaning on surfaces that can tolerate high temperatures.
Fourth, manage personal items that travel with the host. Seal hairbrushes, combs, hats, and hair accessories in a sealed bag for two weeks, or soak them in hot water (130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes, then dry on high heat. Inspect and clean car seats, hair‑dryer filters, and any shared equipment.
Finally, monitor for reinfestation. Conduct weekly examinations of all household members for at least four weeks, using a lice detection comb. Repeat treatment if live insects are found. Maintain strict hygiene practices, such as regular laundering of personal linens and avoiding sharing of headgear, to reduce the risk of recurrence.