How can pillows be cleaned of ticks? - briefly
Wash the pillow in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) with detergent, then tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. If laundering is impossible, seal the pillow in a plastic bag, freeze at 0 °F (‑18 °C) for 48 hours, and afterward vacuum thoroughly.
How can pillows be cleaned of ticks? - in detail
Pillows that have been exposed to tick‑infested environments require a thorough decontamination process to eliminate all life stages of the parasite. The following protocol addresses inspection, physical removal, thermal treatment, chemical options, and preventive measures.
Inspection and initial removal
- Examine the pillow surface and seams under bright light; look for attached ticks, engorged females, or shed skins.
- Use fine‑toothed tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and place the specimen in a sealed container for disposal.
- Vacuum the entire pillow, including folds and stitching, with a HEPA‑rated filter for at least three minutes to capture unattached larvae and nymphs.
Thermal eradication
- Machine‑wash the pillow on the hottest setting the manufacturer permits (typically 140 °F / 60 °C). High temperature kills all developmental stages.
- If the pillow’s care label allows, add a small amount of laundry detergent and a cup of white vinegar to enhance cleaning efficacy.
- After washing, tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Dry‑heat exposure above 130 °F (54 °C) for this duration is lethal to ticks.
Freezing alternative
- For pillows unsuitable for high‑temperature laundering, seal the item in a heavy‑duty plastic bag and place it in a freezer set to –20 °F (–29 °C) for at least 72 hours. Prolonged subzero exposure disables ticks and their eggs.
- After thawing, vacuum the pillow thoroughly before returning it to regular use.
Chemical treatment (when required)
- Apply an EPA‑registered acaricide spray that is labeled safe for fabrics. Follow the product’s instructions regarding concentration, contact time, and ventilation.
- Allow the pillow to dry completely before use to avoid inhalation hazards.
Post‑treatment verification
- Conduct a second visual inspection and repeat vacuuming to confirm the absence of any remnants.
- Store the cleaned pillow in a sealed container until the surrounding area has been treated for ticks, reducing the risk of re‑infestation.
Preventive practices
- Keep pillows away from outdoor storage or areas where wildlife may roam.
- Use pillow protectors made of tightly woven fabric that can be laundered regularly.
- Perform routine washes at high temperature every two weeks during tick season.
By following these steps—inspection, physical removal, heat or freezing, optional chemical application, and ongoing prevention—pillows can be effectively decontaminated, eliminating the threat posed by ticks and their associated pathogens.