How long do lice survive on clothing? - briefly
Lice can remain viable on fabrics for roughly one to two days without a host, with most dying within 24 hours under typical indoor conditions. Survival beyond 48 hours is highly unlikely.
How long do lice survive on clothing? - in detail
Lice can remain viable on fabrics for a limited period, but survival is strongly influenced by environmental conditions and species. Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are adapted to live on the scalp; once removed from a host they quickly lose moisture and die. Under typical indoor temperatures (20‑22 °C) and moderate humidity (40‑60 %), they survive no longer than 24 hours. In cooler, drier environments the lifespan shortens to 6‑12 hours; in warm, humid settings (30 °C, >70 % humidity) survival may extend to 48 hours, though this is uncommon in everyday household conditions.
Body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) are more resilient because they are accustomed to spending time in clothing. On untreated fabrics they can persist for up to 3 days when temperature remains around 25 °C and humidity exceeds 70 %. If the material is dry or exposed to sunlight, viability drops sharply, often within 12‑24 hours.
Key factors affecting off‑host longevity:
- Temperature: Higher temperatures accelerate desiccation; lower temperatures slow metabolism but also reduce moisture availability.
- Relative humidity: Moisture retention prolongs survival; low humidity causes rapid dehydration.
- Fabric type: Natural fibers (cotton, wool) retain more moisture than synthetic blends, offering a slightly longer refuge.
- Exposure to light: Ultraviolet radiation damages lice quickly; direct sunlight can kill them within minutes.
- Cleaning processes: Hot water (>60 °C), steam, or dryer cycles eradicate any remaining insects and eggs.
Practical recommendations for eliminating lice from clothing:
- Wash garments in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- For items that cannot be washed, seal them in a plastic bag for 72 hours; this duration exceeds the maximum survival window for both head and body lice.
- Ironing or steaming fabrics provides additional heat exposure, ensuring complete eradication.
In summary, lice on apparel survive from several hours up to three days, depending on species, temperature, humidity, and fabric characteristics. Prompt laundering or isolation eliminates the risk of re‑infestation.