How can you treat bedding for lice and nits at home? - briefly
Wash all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and clothing in water of at least 130 °F (55 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. For non‑washable items, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks or vacuum thoroughly and apply steam to the mattress and surrounding surfaces.
How can you treat bedding for lice and nits at home? - in detail
Treat the sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and any washable fabric by placing them in hot water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. After the wash cycle, dry the items on the highest heat setting for a full 30 minutes; the heat eliminates both adult lice and their eggs. For items that cannot withstand high temperatures, seal them in a heavy‑duty plastic bag and store for two weeks, a period exceeding the life cycle of the parasite, to ensure hatching nits die.
Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, focusing on seams, crevices, and edges where eggs may accumulate. Empty the vacuum canister or replace the bag immediately after use and dispose of it in a sealed trash container. Apply a mattress and pillow encasement labeled “lice proof” to trap any remaining organisms and prevent re‑infestation.
Non‑washable bedding, such as comforters or decorative pillows, can be treated by exposing them to direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet radiation and heat are lethal to the parasites. Alternatively, place the items in a freezer set to 0 °F (‑18 °C) for at least 48 hours; prolonged cold exposure kills lice and nits.
Clean all surrounding textiles—curtains, clothing, and towels—using the same hot‑water and high‑heat drying protocol. Discard any fabric that cannot be laundered or heat‑treated, such as stuffed toys, or seal them in a plastic bag for the two‑week quarantine period.
Finally, maintain a routine of weekly laundering of bedding on hot settings and regular vacuuming of sleeping areas. This systematic approach eliminates current infestations and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.