How can a house be treated for lice? - briefly
Remove infested clothing, bedding, and personal items, washing them in water ≥130 °F and drying on high heat; vacuum all carpets, upholstery, and floor surfaces, then seal and discard the vacuum bag. Apply a residual insecticide spray approved for head‑lice control to cracks, crevices, and furniture, following label instructions and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days.
How can a house be treated for lice? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice in a residence requires a coordinated strategy that addresses both human hosts and the environment. Begin by confirming the presence of live insects or viable eggs on affected individuals. Immediate personal treatment, using a proven pediculicide or a thorough wet‑comb method, eliminates the primary source of infestation.
After personal care, isolate all clothing, bedding, and washable fabrics worn or used within the previous 48 hours. Place these items in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks, then launder at 130 °F (54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Non‑washable items, such as stuffed toys, should be sealed in airtight containers for the same period or exposed to direct sunlight for several hours, which deactivates lice and eggs.
Thoroughly clean the living space:
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor seams; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wipe hard surfaces—tables, countertops, door handles, light switches—with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Allow the surface to remain wet for five minutes before wiping dry.
- Steam‑clean mattresses, pillowcases, and curtains, as temperatures above 130 °F kill all life stages.
- Empty and clean trash cans, especially those containing infested materials.
Implement preventive measures to avoid recurrence:
- Advise all household members to avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or bedding.
- Schedule regular inspections of hair, focusing on the nape and behind the ears, for at least two weeks after treatment.
- Maintain a cleaning routine that includes weekly vacuuming and periodic laundering of bedding at high temperatures.
By executing personal de‑infestation, isolating and processing all potentially contaminated items, sanitizing the environment, and establishing ongoing vigilance, a home can be restored to a lice‑free condition.