How can I remove ticks from pillows? - briefly
Wash the pillow on the hottest temperature allowed for its material and dry it on high heat for at least 30 minutes to eliminate any ticks. If washing is not feasible, seal the pillow in a plastic bag and freeze it at –18 °C (0 °F) for 48 hours before cleaning.
How can I remove ticks from pillows? - in detail
Removing tick infestations from bedding requires a systematic approach that combines physical removal, thermal treatment, and preventive measures.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying glass to locate adult ticks, nymphs, and eggs on the pillow surface and seams. Pay special attention to stitching lines, where parasites often conceal themselves.
Physical removal
- Gently lift each visible tick with tweezers, grasping close to the body to avoid leaving mouthparts behind.
- Place removed specimens in a sealed container for disposal or further analysis.
- Vacuum the entire pillow, including folds and tags, using a hose attachment. Run the vacuum for at least two minutes on high suction, then empty the bag or canister into a sealed trash bag.
Thermal treatment
- Wash the pillow according to the manufacturer’s instructions at the highest safe temperature, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Hot water kills all life stages of ticks.
- After washing, dry the pillow in a dryer on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat exposure of 120 °F (49 °C) for 10 minutes is lethal to ticks, and extended drying ensures complete eradication.
Alternative methods
- If the pillow cannot withstand high temperatures, place it in a freezer set to –20 °F (–29 °C) for at least 48 hours. Freezing immobilizes and eventually kills ticks.
- For persistent infestations, apply a pesticide labeled for indoor use on fabrics. Follow label directions precisely, ensuring adequate ventilation and a safe re‑entry interval before using the pillow again.
Preventive actions
- Store pillows in sealed plastic bags when not in use, especially during seasons when ticks are active.
- Keep the sleeping area free of wildlife and rodents that may transport ticks.
- Regularly launder pillow covers and protectors at high temperatures.
- Inspect bedding weekly during peak tick season and repeat the removal process if any are found.
By combining inspection, mechanical extraction, heat or cold treatment, and ongoing prevention, tick populations can be eliminated from pillows and the risk of re‑infestation minimized.