How often should bedding be changed when dealing with lice? - briefly
Replace all sheets, pillowcases and blankets daily for at least two weeks, washing them at a minimum temperature of «130 °F» (54 °C). Continue the routine for an additional week after the last live louse is detected to confirm elimination.
How often should bedding be changed when dealing with lice? - in detail
Changing sheets and pillowcases each day is essential during a lice infestation. Daily laundering removes newly hatched nymphs and prevents re‑infestation from residual eggs. Continue this routine until no live lice are detected on the scalp for at least three consecutive days, then maintain daily changes for an additional 10‑14 days to break the life cycle.
Washing instructions require temperatures of at least 130 °F (55 °C). Use a high‑heat dryer cycle of a minimum of 30 minutes. If hot water or dryer heat is unavailable, seal contaminated bedding in a plastic bag for two weeks; the eggs will not survive beyond this period.
Additional precautions include:
- Vacuuming the mattress surface to eliminate fallen debris.
- Applying a lice‑proof encasement to the mattress and pillow.
- Laundering blankets, comforters, and any removable fabric covers with the same temperature and drying parameters.
- Disinfecting the bedroom floor and surrounding furniture with an appropriate insecticide or a steam cleaner.
Adhering to a strict daily laundering schedule, combined with proper heat treatment and environmental cleaning, effectively eliminates lice from bedding and reduces the risk of recurrence.