How should a bed be treated for lice? - briefly
Wash all linens, pillowcases, and blankets in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) or dry‑clean them, then dry on high heat for 30 minutes. Vacuum the mattress, steam‑treat it, and seal it with a lice‑proof encasement.
How should a bed be treated for lice? - in detail
Treat a lice‑infested sleeping surface by eliminating live insects, their eggs, and any contaminated materials. Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the mattress, box spring, bed frame, and surrounding fabric. Remove all bedding, pillows, and any removable covers.
-
Launder textiles
• Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and any washable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C).
• Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills both nymphs and eggs.
• For items that cannot be machine‑washed, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to starve lice. -
Treat the mattress and box spring
• Vacuum every surface, seams, and tufts using a brush attachment. Empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard.
• Apply a lice‑specific spray or powder that contains permethrin, pyrethrin, or a non‑chemical option such as diatomaceous earth. Follow manufacturer directions precisely, ensuring even coverage of all crevices.
• After chemical treatment, allow the product to remain on the surface for the recommended contact time (usually 10–15 minutes) before vacuuming again. -
Heat‑based disinfection
• If a steam cleaner is available, steam the mattress, box spring, and headboard at temperatures above 130 °F for several minutes, focusing on seams and folds.
• For portable heating, place the mattress in a sealed container with a heat source capable of maintaining 130 °F for at least 30 minutes; this method eliminates eggs that may survive surface treatments. -
Sanitize the bed frame and surrounding furniture
• Wipe wooden or metal components with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
• Allow surfaces to air‑dry completely before reassembling the bed. -
Address hidden refuges
• Remove or treat carpets, rugs, and floor coverings near the bed. Vacuum thoroughly and consider steam cleaning.
• Wash curtains and drapes in hot water or dry‑clean them.
• Inspect and clean any nearby upholstered furniture using the same vacuum‑and‑heat protocol. -
Prevent re‑infestation
• Encase the mattress and box spring in certified lice‑proof covers; leave them on for at least three months.
• Maintain a routine of weekly vacuuming and monthly laundering of bedding on high heat.
• Limit head‑to‑head contact during sleep and avoid sharing pillows or blankets.
By systematically laundering, applying heat or approved insecticide, and sanitizing all components of the sleeping area, the environment becomes inhospitable to lice and their eggs, ensuring effective eradication.