How can you quickly get rid of clothing lice? - briefly
Wash all affected garments in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. If washing is impractical, seal items in a freezer at –20 °C (–4 °F) for 48 hours to kill the insects.
How can you quickly get rid of clothing lice? - in detail
Clothing lice infestations require immediate action to prevent spread and recurrence.
First, isolate all contaminated items. Place them in sealed plastic bags to stop lice from migrating to clean garments.
Next, wash the affected fabrics. Use the hottest water the material can tolerate (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and add a regular laundry detergent. Run a full cycle, then dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; heat kills both adult lice and their eggs.
For items that cannot endure high temperatures, apply a freezing method. Seal the pieces in airtight bags and store them in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 48 hours. The prolonged cold exposure destroys the parasites.
If washing or freezing is impractical, treat the surfaces with an approved insecticide spray. Choose a product labeled for clothing lice, follow the label dosage, and allow the recommended drying time before wearing.
After treatment, vacuum the area where the clothes were stored. Use a HEPA‑rated vacuum, empty the canister into a sealed bag, and discard it promptly to eliminate any stray insects.
Finally, discard or thoroughly clean any accessories (belts, hats, scarves) that came into contact with the infestation.
Prevent future problems by:
- Storing garments in airtight containers when not in use.
- Inspecting second‑hand clothing before adding it to the wardrobe.
- Maintaining low humidity in closets, as lice thrive in moist environments.
These steps eradicate the problem quickly and reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation.