How can clothing lice be removed? - briefly
Wash the infested items in hot water with detergent, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for at least 20 minutes; for non‑washable fabrics, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks or treat with an approved insecticide spray. Ensure all seams and folds are thoroughly cleaned, as lice hide in these areas.
How can clothing lice be removed? - in detail
Removing lice from garments requires a systematic approach that eliminates all life stages of the insect and prevents re‑infestation. Begin by isolating contaminated items. Place clothing, bedding, and accessories in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours; this deprives lice of a blood source and kills many adults and nymphs.
Proceed with laundering. Use the hottest water safe for the fabric (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C). Add a normal dose of detergent and, if possible, a small amount of an approved lice‑killing additive such as 0.5 % benzyl alcohol solution. After the wash cycle, tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; the combination of heat and moisture destroys eggs and surviving insects.
For items that cannot withstand high temperatures, apply a freezing method. Seal the objects in airtight bags and place them in a freezer set to –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of 72 hours. The prolonged exposure to sub‑zero temperatures is lethal to all stages of the parasite.
If laundering or freezing is impractical, treat the surface with a suitable insecticide. Choose a product labeled for fabric use, containing ingredients such as permethrin (0.5 %) or pyrethrin. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely: spray evenly, allow the recommended contact time, then rinse or air‑dry as directed. Avoid excessive saturation that could damage delicate textiles.
After treatment, vacuum the surrounding area, including floors, carpets, and upholstery, using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent any surviving lice from escaping.
Inspect each item thoroughly. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a magnifying lens to examine seams, cuffs, and folds for remaining insects or nymphs. Repeat the washing or freezing step if any are detected.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Store clean clothing in sealed containers, avoid sharing garments, and maintain regular cleaning schedules for household textiles. By adhering to these steps, infestations can be eradicated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimized.