How can lice living in clothing be killed? - briefly
Wash the clothing at 130 °F (54 °C) or higher and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; this eliminates both lice and their eggs. If washing is not feasible, seal the items in an airtight bag for two weeks or apply a lice‑approved insecticide spray according to the product label.
How can lice living in clothing be killed? - in detail
Lice that have infested garments must be removed promptly to prevent re‑infestation. The most reliable method is a high‑temperature wash. Use water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter, add a regular detergent, and run a full‑cycle wash. Follow with a dryer setting of at least 130 °F for 30 minutes; the heat kills all life stages.
If washing is impractical, place the items in a sealed plastic bag and freeze them at –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of 72 hours. The prolonged cold exposure eliminates eggs and nymphs. After thawing, launder the clothing as described above.
For items that cannot be laundered or frozen, apply an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for clothing. Permethrin 0.5 % or pyrethrin‑based sprays are effective. Apply according to the product label, ensuring even coverage, then allow the treated fabric to air‑dry completely before use. Repeat treatment after 7 days to target any hatching eggs.
Additional mechanical measures include:
- Vacuuming surfaces and storage areas with a HEPA‑filter vacuum, discarding the bag immediately.
- Using a steam cleaner on fabrics that tolerate moisture; steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for several minutes penetrates fibers and kills lice.
After treatment, store cleaned garments in airtight containers or zip‑lock bags to avoid re‑contamination. Avoid sharing clothing, hats, or scarves until the infestation is fully resolved. Regular inspection of personal items and prompt laundering of potentially exposed clothing will maintain a lice‑free environment.