How can furniture be disinfected from lice? - briefly
Apply a high‑temperature steam treatment or a lice‑specific insecticide spray, then vacuum all surfaces thoroughly. Wash removable fabrics in water above 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat to eliminate any remaining nits.
How can furniture be disinfected from lice? - in detail
Eliminating lice infestations from household furnishings requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical, thermal, chemical, and preventive measures.
A thorough inspection identifies the extent of contamination. Separate infested items from clean ones, and isolate them in a sealed container to prevent spreading.
Mechanical removal
- Use a fine‑toothed comb or lint roller to collect adult lice and nits from fabric surfaces.
- Vacuum upholstery, mattresses, and cushions with a HEPA‑rated vacuum; discard the bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
Thermal treatment
- Wash removable covers, blankets, and pillowcases in hot water at ≥ 60 °C for at least 30 minutes; tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 20 minutes.
- Apply steam cleaning to non‑washable furniture; steam temperature should exceed 100 °C and exposure time should be at least 5 minutes per area.
- For items that cannot be steamed, place them in a freezer set to –18 °C for 48 hours; prolonged freezing kills lice and eggs.
Chemical disinfection
- Select an insecticide approved for indoor use on fabrics, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray; follow label instructions regarding dilution, application distance, and ventilation.
- Apply a 0.5 % permethrin solution directly to upholstery, allowing it to remain wet for the recommended contact time (usually 10–15 minutes) before wiping excess with a clean cloth.
- Use an EPA‑registered surface disinfectant that contains quaternary ammonium compounds; ensure the product is safe for the specific fabric to avoid discoloration.
Professional pest control
- When infestation is extensive, engage licensed exterminators who can apply residual treatments, such as aerosolized insect growth regulators, to prevent re‑infestation.
Preventive practices
- Maintain low indoor humidity (30–50 %) to create an unfavorable environment for lice development.
- Regularly launder pillowcases, blankets, and slipcovers at high temperatures.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture weekly, emptying the vacuum container into a sealed bag before disposal.
- Inspect new second‑hand furniture before bringing it into the home; treat suspected items with heat or chemical methods prior to use.
Verification