How do you prepare chlorine water for lice treatment?

How do you prepare chlorine water for lice treatment? - briefly

Mix household bleach (5‑6 % sodium hypochlorite) with clean water to reach a 0.5 % chlorine solution—about 1 part bleach to 10 parts water—and apply to the infested hair for ten minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Use gloves, keep the area well‑ventilated, and do not exceed the recommended exposure time to prevent scalp irritation.

How do you prepare chlorine water for lice treatment? - in detail

To create an effective chlorine solution for lice eradication, follow each step precisely.

1. Gather materials

   • Unscented liquid bleach containing 5–6 % sodium hypochlorite.
   • Distilled or filtered water.
   • Clean measuring cup or graduated cylinder.
   • Non‑metallic mixing container with lid.
   • Protective gloves and eye protection.

2. Determine concentration

   • Target a final chlorine concentration of 0.5 % (5 g L⁻¹).
   • For 1 L of solution, combine 20 mL of bleach with 980 mL of water.
   • Adjust volume proportionally for larger batches.

3. Mix safely

   • Wear gloves and goggles.
   • Add water to the mixing container first, then slowly pour bleach while stirring gently.
   • Seal the container and shake briefly to ensure uniform distribution.
   • Label the container with concentration, preparation date, and safety warnings.

4. Verify concentration (optional)

   • Use chlorine test strips or a calibrated photometer.
   • Confirm the reading matches the intended 0.5 % level; adjust by adding more bleach or water if necessary.

5. Application procedure

   • Dampen hair with plain water; do not saturate.
   • Apply the chlorine solution evenly, ensuring full coverage of scalp and hair shafts.
   • Allow contact for 10 minutes; do not exceed 15 minutes to avoid irritation.
   • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid using shampoo immediately after treatment.

6. Post‑treatment care

   • Inspect hair for remaining lice or nits; repeat application after 7 days if any survive.
   • Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥60 °C) or discard disposable items.
   • Clean the mixing container with detergent and rinse well before storage.

7. Storage and disposal

   • Store prepared solution in a tightly sealed, opaque container at room temperature, away from children and pets.
   • Use within 24 hours; discard any leftover solution by diluting with large volumes of water and flushing down the drain.

Adhering to these precise instructions yields a reliable chlorine solution for lice control while minimizing risk of skin irritation or chemical hazards.