How long do ticks live on clothing? - briefly
Ticks can stay alive on fabric for about two weeks, and under warm, humid conditions some species may survive up to a month.
How long do ticks live on clothing? - in detail
Ticks may remain viable on fabric for a limited period, but the exact duration varies with species, developmental stage, and environmental conditions. Adult ticks of the common deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) can survive up to 10 days on dry clothing at temperatures between 20 °C and 30 °C, provided humidity exceeds 50 %. Larvae and nymphs, being smaller and more susceptible to desiccation, typically persist for 2–5 days under the same conditions. In cooler, damp environments (10 °C–15 °C, humidity > 80 %), adult survival can extend to 2–3 weeks, while immature stages may last 7–10 days.
Key factors influencing survivability on textiles:
- Temperature: Higher heat accelerates metabolic loss; extreme cold (< 5 °C) can prolong life but may induce dormancy.
- Humidity: Moisture slows dehydration; dry air shortens lifespan dramatically.
- Fabric type: Natural fibers (cotton, wool) retain more moisture than synthetics, supporting longer survival.
- Exposure to sunlight: UV radiation reduces viability within hours.
Practical implications:
- Immediate removal of outdoor clothing reduces the risk of ticks attaching to skin.
- Washing garments in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 10 minutes kills all stages.
- Drying on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes is equally effective.
- Storing unused outdoor apparel in sealed containers with silica packets limits humidity and prevents accidental tick transport.
In summary, ticks can remain alive on apparel from a few days to several weeks, depending on species, life stage, temperature, humidity, and fabric composition. Prompt laundering and proper storage are essential to eliminate the threat.