How long do lice live in bedding? - briefly
Adult head lice can survive on sheets and other fabrics for up to 48 hours, rarely exceeding two days without a human host. Nymphs and eggs die even faster, generally within 24 hours.
How long do lice live in bedding? - in detail
Lice that have fallen off a human host can remain viable on sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and other bedding for a limited period. Under optimal conditions—moderate temperature (20‑25 °C or 68‑77 °F) and relative humidity above 50 %—adult head lice may survive up to 48 hours. Nymphs, being more fragile, typically endure 24 hours or less. Body lice, which are adapted to clothing, can persist slightly longer, often 2‑3 days, because their eggs (nits) are more resistant to desiccation.
Survival time varies with environmental factors:
- Temperature above 30 °C (86 °F): rapid death within a few hours.
- Temperature below 10 °C (50 °F): prolonged dormancy, but eventual mortality within 5‑7 days.
- Low humidity (<30 %): accelerated dehydration, reducing lifespan to under 12 hours.
- High humidity (>70 %): extends viability to the upper limits noted above.
Cleaning measures that eliminate lice from bedding are straightforward:
- Wash fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C or 140 °F) for at least 10 minutes.
- Dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- For items that cannot be laundered, place in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 24 hours.
- Vacuum mattresses and surrounding areas, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister.
By understanding the temporal limits of lice survival on linens and applying targeted sanitation, the risk of re‑infestation can be effectively minimized.