How can you get rid of lice in a sofa at home? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum the couch, steam‑clean the fabric, wash removable covers in hot water, and treat seams and crevices with a lice‑specific insecticide powder or spray, allowing it to dry before use.
How can you get rid of lice in a sofa at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations from upholstered furniture requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
First, isolate the affected piece to prevent spreading to other surfaces. Remove all cushions, blankets, and removable covers. Vacuum the entire sofa, including seams, crevices, and underside of cushions, using a hose attachment. Empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it outside the home.
Next, treat the fabric and internal padding:
- Wash any removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- For non‑washable upholstery, apply an over‑the‑counter lice spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin, following the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and contact time. Test a hidden area first to avoid discoloration.
- After spraying, cover the sofa with a clean, tightly‑woven plastic sheet, sealing the edges with tape. Leave the enclosure for 24 hours to ensure the insecticide penetrates the fibers.
After the exposure period, remove the plastic, repeat vacuuming, and then use a fine‑toothed comb or lice‑removal brush on the fabric while it is still damp from the spray. This helps dislodge any remaining nymphs and eggs.
Finally, maintain a lice‑free environment:
- Wash all bedding, pillows, and nearby fabrics on the same hot‑water cycle.
- Store cushions and blankets in sealed bags for at least two weeks, as lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host.
- Keep the room temperature low (below 70 °F/21 °C) and reduce humidity, which discourages lice activity.
By following these steps—isolating the furniture, thorough vacuuming, appropriate chemical application, mechanical removal, and post‑treatment sanitation—lice can be eradicated from a sofa without professional assistance.