How do you clean laundry from lice? - briefly
Clothing infested with lice must be washed in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) with detergent, then dried on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; adding a small amount of bleach or a non‑oil‑based disinfectant improves effectiveness. Items that cannot endure high temperatures should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks to eliminate any remaining nits.
How do you clean laundry from lice? - in detail
Removing head‑lice eggs and nymphs from clothing requires heat, thorough agitation, and isolation of contaminated items. The following protocol eliminates viable parasites and prevents reinfestation.
A wash cycle at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) destroys both lice and their eggs. Use a regular detergent; adding a small amount of bleach (5 % sodium hypochlorite) to white fabrics provides an extra safety margin. For colored garments, a non‑chlorine disinfectant such as a quaternary ammonium compound may be employed.
After washing, place the items in a dryer set to high heat (≥ 130 °F) for at least 20 minutes. The combination of temperature and tumbling guarantees complete eradication. Items that cannot be tumble‑dried should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks; lice cannot survive without a host for longer than 48 hours, and the extended period ensures mortality.
Additional measures:
- Separate all potentially infested laundry from everyday clothing before processing.
- Inspect seams, cuffs, and folds for any remaining nits; remove manually with a fine‑toothed comb if visible.
- Clean washing machine drum and dryer lint trap with a disinfectant solution after each cycle.
- Vacuum floors, carpets, and upholstered furniture in the vicinity of the laundering area to capture stray insects.
- Discard or wash bedding, towels, and personal accessories (hats, scarves) using the same high‑temperature protocol.
If any garment is labeled “hand‑wash only” or “cold wash only,” place it in a sealed bag for two weeks rather than attempting temperature‑based decontamination. This isolation method prevents accidental spread while preserving the fabric’s integrity.
Following the outlined steps eliminates lice from laundry and reduces the risk of re‑infestation. Continuous adherence to the temperature and isolation guidelines is essential for long‑term control.