How should furniture be treated to eliminate bed lice? - briefly
All infested furniture should be heated to at least 50 °C for 30 minutes or sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks to deprive the parasites of a host. Alternatively, apply a label‑approved insecticide according to the product’s safety instructions.
How should furniture be treated to eliminate bed lice? - in detail
Effective eradication of Cimex lectularius from furniture requires a combination of mechanical, thermal, and chemical actions.
Thorough removal of visible insects and eggs begins with disassembly of detachable components. All cushions, mattresses, and fabric covers should be taken off and placed in sealed plastic bags before treatment.
Vacuuming with a high‑efficiency filter eliminates loose stages. The vacuum hose must be passed over seams, crevices, and joints for at least two minutes per surface. After use, the bag or canister should be sealed and discarded to prevent re‑infestation.
Heat application is a proven method. Steam generators delivering temperatures of 130 °C (266 °F) for a minimum of 30 seconds penetrate fabric layers and kill all life stages. Portable steamers should be moved slowly across surfaces, ensuring continuous contact. For solid wood or upholstered frames, a portable heater set to 50 °C (122 °F) for several hours can achieve lethal exposure, provided the material tolerates the temperature.
Chemical treatment complements physical measures. Residual insecticides approved for indoor use, such as pyrethroid‑based sprays, may be applied to cracks, stitching, and underside of furniture. Follow label instructions regarding concentration, dwell time, and ventilation. In cases of resistance, a combination of neonicotinoid and organophosphate products, applied by a licensed pest‑control professional, offers broader efficacy.
Encapsulation prevents re‑colonisation. After treatment, all fabric components can be covered with impermeable encasements labeled «bed‑lice‑proof». Encasements must remain in place for at least 12 weeks, the duration of the insect’s life cycle, to capture any newly hatched individuals.
If infestation is extensive and items are heavily damaged, disposal may be the most practical solution. Furniture slated for removal should be sealed in double‑bagged plastic and labelled «infested» before transport to a licensed waste facility.
Preventive practices sustain a lice‑free environment. Regular vacuuming, prompt laundering of bedding at ≥ 60 °C, and inspection of second‑hand furniture before introduction into the home reduce recurrence risk.
Following the outlined protocol—mechanical removal, high‑temperature steam, targeted insecticide application, encasement, and vigilant hygiene—provides comprehensive control of bed‑lice populations in household furnishings.