How can you get rid of ticks in down pillows? - briefly
Wash the pillow in water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) and tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum the surface to remove any remaining debris. If washing is not possible, seal the pillow in a plastic bag and freeze it at –20 °C (–4 °F) for 48 hours before vacuuming and fluffing.
How can you get rid of ticks in down pillows? - in detail
Ticks can survive in down-filled bedding because the material retains moisture and provides a protected environment. Effective removal requires a combination of cleaning, inspection, and preventive measures.
First, isolate the pillow. Place it in a sealed plastic bag to prevent any remaining arthropods from escaping during treatment.
Next, apply heat. Ticks die at temperatures above 130 °F (54 °C). Use one of the following methods:
- Domestic dryer – set to high heat and run for at least 30 minutes. Ensure the pillow can tolerate tumble‑drying; most synthetic covers do, while pure down may shrink.
- Steam cleaner – direct steam at the surface and interior seams for several minutes, maintaining a temperature above 130 °F.
- Oven – preheat to 150 °F (65 °C) and place the pillow on a clean tray for 20–30 minutes, checking that the fabric does not scorch.
After heating, wash the pillow according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use hot water (minimum 130 °F) and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residual debris.
Once clean, dry the pillow completely. A low‑humidity environment prevents re‑infestation. If a dryer is unsuitable, air‑dry in direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet radiation contributes to tick mortality.
Inspection follows drying:
- Examine seams, stitching, and the interior cavity with a bright flashlight.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb or a lint roller to capture any surviving specimens.
- Dispose of collected material in a sealed container and discard it in an outdoor trash bin.
Prevent future infestations by:
- Storing pillows in airtight containers when not in use.
- Keeping bedroom windows screened and using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to remove stray ticks from floors and upholstery.
- Applying a low‑toxicity acaricide spray approved for indoor fabrics, following label directions.
If ticks persist after these steps, consider professional pest‑control services that can treat the entire sleeping area with targeted acaricides. Replacement of the pillow may be necessary when the down is heavily compromised or when repeated treatments fail.