How long do lice survive on bed linens at home? - briefly
Lice can survive on sheets, pillowcases, or blankets for roughly 24–48 hours without a human host; after about two days they typically die from starvation. Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity may shorten this period, but the maximum survival time remains under 48 hours.
How long do lice survive on bed linens at home? - in detail
Lice are ectoparasites that require a human host for feeding, but they can remain alive on fabrics for a limited period. Adult head lice and their nymphs typically survive 24 to 48 hours when removed from a scalp, with some reports of up to 72 hours under warm, humid conditions. Body lice, which inhabit clothing rather than hair, can persist longer—up to five days—because their eggs (nits) are more tolerant of ambient environments.
Key factors influencing survivability on bedding include:
- Temperature: Temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F) accelerate dehydration and death; cooler rooms prolong survival.
- Relative humidity: Levels above 70 % reduce water loss, extending viability, while dry air hastens mortality.
- Stage of development: Eggs are the most resilient, lasting several days; unfed nymphs and adults die more quickly.
Practical measures to eliminate lice from linens:
- Hot water laundering: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets at a minimum of 55 °C (130 °F) for at least 10 minutes.
- Dry heat: Tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes or place items in a dryer‑safe bag and heat for 30 minutes.
- Sealing: For items that cannot be washed, seal them in an airtight plastic bag for two weeks; lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours, and eggs will hatch and die without a host.
- Chemical treatment: Apply a lice‑specific spray approved for fabrics, following label instructions, if laundering is impractical.
After treatment, inspect the sleeping area for residual nits on hair shafts and repeat the cleaning cycle after 7 days to catch any newly hatched lice that may have survived the initial decontamination. Regularly changing and washing bedding weekly reduces the risk of re‑infestation.