How can furniture be treated for lice and nits at home? - briefly
Use a steam cleaner set to high temperature or launder removable upholstery covers in water above 130 °F, then vacuum all furniture surfaces and crevices thoroughly; if needed, apply a lice‑specific residual spray approved for indoor use.
How can furniture be treated for lice and nits at home? - in detail
Effective control of lice and their eggs on household furnishings requires a combination of mechanical, thermal, and, when necessary, chemical actions.
Vacuuming removes adult insects and loose eggs from surfaces. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; run the hose over upholstered chairs, sofa cushions, mattress tops, and carpet edges for at least five minutes per item. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard it outdoors.
Steam cleaning delivers temperatures above 130 °F (54 °C), which kills both lice and nits. Apply a handheld steamer to all fabric areas, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Maintain the steam flow for at least ten seconds per spot to ensure lethal heat penetration.
Removable covers on sofas, mattresses, and pillows should be laundered. Wash at the highest temperature the fabric tolerates, preferably ≥140 °F (60 °C), for a minimum of 30 minutes. If the fabric cannot withstand high heat, place the items in a sealed plastic bag and freeze at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 72 hours; prolonged cold exposure also eliminates the parasites.
For non‑removable upholstery, apply a lice‑specific aerosol spray labeled for indoor use. Follow manufacturer directions precisely: spray evenly, allow the recommended dwell time, then ventilate the room for at least one hour. After treatment, repeat vacuuming to remove dead insects and residual eggs.
Carpeted areas benefit from a two‑step approach. First, sprinkle a fine‑grade diatomaceous earth, which desiccates insects. Leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. Second, use a portable carpet steamer to provide additional heat treatment.
Inspect all treated items after 48 hours. Look for live lice or intact nits on seams, under cushions, and in hidden corners. If any are found, repeat the appropriate step (vacuum, steam, or chemical spray). Continue monitoring for two weeks, as nits may hatch after the initial cycle.
Safety precautions: wear disposable gloves when handling contaminated fabrics, avoid direct skin contact with chemical sprays, and keep children and pets out of treated rooms until ventilation is complete. Store all insecticidal products out of reach of children.
Regular maintenance reduces the risk of reinfestation. Vacuum high‑traffic furniture weekly, wash bedding monthly at high temperature, and keep clutter to a minimum, eliminating potential hiding places for lice and their eggs.