How can a home be disinfected from lice? - briefly
First, launder all clothing, bedding, and washable fabrics in water at least 130 °F (or dry‑clean them) and seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for two weeks. Then, vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly and apply a lice‑approved insecticidal spray or steam treatment to all remaining surfaces.
How can a home be disinfected from lice? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that targets both the insects on the body and their hidden reservoirs in the environment. Begin by treating all affected individuals with a proven pediculicide, following the product instructions for dosage and repeat application. After the initial treatment, remove all clothing, bedding, and washable fabrics that have been in contact with the host. Wash these items in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 10 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes. Non‑washable items—such as stuffed toys, pillows, or delicate garments—should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the period required for lice to die without a blood meal.
Next, address the home’s surfaces. Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor cracks thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it immediately. For hard surfaces, mop or wipe with a solution of 0.5 % permethrin or a comparable EPA‑registered lice‑killing spray, ensuring the product remains wet for the recommended contact time (usually 10 minutes). Pay special attention to areas where hair may rest, such as headboards, pillowcases, and the edges of mattresses.
Infested hair accessories, combs, and brushes must be soaked in hot water (at least 130 °F) for 10 minutes, then rinsed and dried. If soaking is impractical, place them in a sealed container with a lice‑killing aerosol for the duration specified by the manufacturer.
To prevent re‑infestation, implement the following checklist:
- Treat all household members simultaneously, even those without visible signs.
- Launder all washable textiles at high temperature; seal non‑washables for 14 days.
- Vacuum and discard vacuum contents; clean hard surfaces with an approved insecticidal solution.
- Decontaminate grooming tools by soaking or aerosol treatment.
- Inspect and, if necessary, replace items that cannot be adequately disinfected.
Maintain vigilance for at least three weeks after the final treatment, checking hair and scalp daily. Re‑apply the pediculicide if live nits are discovered. Consistent execution of these steps eliminates the infestation and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.