How should combs be treated after lice removal? - briefly
Rinse the comb in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for several minutes, then soak it in a disinfectant such as 10 % bleach or alcohol before air‑drying. If a disposable comb was used, discard it to ensure complete sterility.
How should combs be treated after lice removal? - in detail
After the infestation has been eradicated, the lice comb must be thoroughly decontaminated to prevent re‑infestation and to eliminate any remaining eggs. Follow these steps:
- Immediately place the comb in a basin of hot water (at least 130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes. The temperature destroys live nits and any surviving lice.
- After soaking, scrub the teeth with a stiff brush or an old toothbrush, using a mild detergent. This removes organic debris that can harbor eggs.
- Rinse the comb under running water to wash away soap residues.
- Disinfect the cleaned comb by soaking it for 5 minutes in a solution of 1 part household bleach to 9 parts water, or in an alcohol solution of at least 70 % isopropyl alcohol. Both agents are effective against residual microorganisms.
- Rinse again thoroughly to remove any chemical traces, then dry the comb completely on a clean towel or paper towel. Allow it to air‑dry in a well‑ventilated area before storage.
- Store the dry comb in a sealed plastic bag or a dedicated container to keep it free from dust and moisture until the next use.
If the comb is made of plastic that cannot withstand high heat, substitute the hot‑water step with a 10‑minute soak in a disinfectant solution (e.g., diluted bleach) followed by vigorous scrubbing. Metal combs can tolerate higher temperatures; placing them in a dishwasher on a hot cycle is also acceptable.
In cases where the comb shows signs of damage—bent teeth, cracks, or corrosion—discard it. A compromised comb may fail to remove remaining nits and can reintroduce the parasite.
By adhering to this protocol, the comb will be rendered safe for future treatments and will not serve as a vector for renewed infestation.