How long do lice survive on bed linens? - briefly
Adult head lice survive on bedding for approximately 24–48 hours without a host. Their eggs can remain viable for up to a week, but will not hatch without contact with a human scalp.
How long do lice survive on bed linens? - in detail
Lice can persist on bedding for several days, but their viability declines sharply after 48 hours under typical household conditions. Adult head‑lice and their nymphs require a blood meal within 24–48 hours; without a host, they become dehydrated and die. Body‑lice, which inhabit clothing, show a similar pattern, surviving up to 72 hours when temperatures range from 20 °C to 30 °C and relative humidity exceeds 50 %.
Key factors influencing survival on linens:
- Temperature: Below 10 °C, metabolic activity slows, extending life span to 5–7 days. Above 35 °C, lethal heat can kill insects within minutes.
- Humidity: High moisture (≥70 %) prolongs life; dry environments accelerate desiccation.
- Exposure to sunlight: Ultraviolet radiation damages exoskeletons, reducing survivability within a few hours.
- Cleaning methods: Hot water washing (≥60 °C) and tumble‑drying on high heat eradicate all stages. Steam cleaning or applying a lice‑specific insecticide to fabrics also effective.
Practical guidance:
- Strip the bed and launder sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (≥60 °C).
- Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for 72 hours to ensure starvation.
- Vacuum mattress surfaces and surrounding areas, then discard the vacuum bag or empty canister outdoors.
If infestation persists after these measures, repeat laundering and consider professional pest‑control treatment. Continuous monitoring of the sleeping environment for live insects should continue for at least one week to confirm eradication.