How can you get rid of louse nits in the house? - briefly
Wash all bedding, clothing, and washable items in water ≥ 130 °F and dry on the highest heat setting; then vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly and apply an EPA‑approved nit‑specific insecticide or silicone‑based spray to treated areas. Finally, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on any remaining hair to remove residual eggs.
How can you get rid of louse nits in the house? - in detail
Eliminate head‑lice eggs from the home by following a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, thorough cleaning, and preventive measures.
First, treat all affected individuals. Apply a pediculicide lotion or shampoo that contains permethrin or dimethicone according to the product label. After the recommended exposure time, use a fine‑toothed nit comb to separate each egg from the hair shaft. Comb the hair in sections, wiping the comb on a white tissue after each pass to verify removal. Repeat the combing process after 7–10 days to catch any hatchlings that escaped the initial treatment.
Second, address personal items. Place clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours into a sealed plastic bag and store for at least 72 hours; lice and nits cannot survive beyond this period without a host. For items that can be laundered, wash at 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Non‑washable garments may be sealed in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 24 hours.
Third, sanitize the environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor cracks thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately after use. Steam‑clean hard surfaces, mattresses, and curtains; temperatures above 130 °F are lethal to both lice and eggs. For rugs and upholstered furniture that cannot be steam‑treated, consider a professional heat‑treatment service.
Fourth, treat personal grooming tools. Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 140 °F / 60 °C) for 10 minutes, or place them in a sealed bag and expose them to a dryer’s heat setting for 20 minutes. Discard any damaged items that cannot be decontaminated.
Fifth, implement preventive actions. Instruct household members to avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or bedding. Encourage regular head inspections, especially after sleepovers or school activities. Maintain a clean environment by repeating vacuuming and laundering cycles weekly for at least one month.
By combining direct treatment, rigorous cleaning of fabrics and surfaces, and ongoing vigilance, the infestation can be eradicated and the risk of recurrence minimized.