How can I get rid of lice and fleas at home? - briefly
Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water, vacuum carpets and furniture, and use a fine‑toothed comb with medicated lice shampoo on the affected person. Treat pets and their sleeping areas with a veterinarian‑approved flea spray or powder and repeat the process after a week to interrupt the life cycle.
How can I get rid of lice and fleas at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations and household flea problems requires a coordinated approach that targets the insects, their eggs, and any contaminated environment.
Begin by treating the affected individuals. For lice, apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion that contains permethrin (1 %) or dimethicone. Follow the product instructions precisely, leave the solution on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. After the first treatment, repeat the application after seven to ten days to eradicate any newly hatched nymphs. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair to remove live insects and nits; comb through each section from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after each pass.
For fleas, start with the pets. Bathe dogs or cats using a flea‑killing shampoo that includes ingredients such as pyrethrins or fipronil. After washing, apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide that provides continuous protection for at least one month. Treat all animals in the home simultaneously to prevent re‑infestation.
Next, address the living spaces. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn by the infested persons or pets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstery, and cracks in flooring thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and dispose of it outside the home. Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor use against both lice and fleas, following label directions for concentration, ventilation, and dwell time.
Treat outdoor areas where pets frequent. Trim grass and remove leaf litter to reduce flea habitats. Sprinkle a pet‑safe diatomaceous earth or a flea‑targeting granule around the perimeter, allowing it to sit for several days before rinsing or vacuuming.
Maintain a strict cleaning schedule for at least three weeks. Repeat vacuuming and laundering every two to three days, and monitor pets and humans for any signs of recurrence. If infestations persist after two treatment cycles, consult a medical professional for alternative lice medications and a veterinarian for stronger flea control options.
By combining personal treatment, thorough laundering, targeted insecticide application, and environmental sanitation, the infestations can be fully eradicated without resorting to professional extermination services.