How should items be treated after lice and nits appear? - briefly
Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry them on high heat; non‑launderable items should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or discarded. Ensure all treated items are stored away from untreated belongings until the infestation is cleared.
How should items be treated after lice and nits appear? - in detail
When lice and their eggs are detected, every potentially contaminated object must be processed to eliminate the infestation and prevent reinfestation.
First, separate washable fabrics from those that cannot be laundered. Wash clothing, bedding, towels, and washable plush toys in hot water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to avoid damage. After washing, dry items on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; the combination of temperature and moisture kills both adult insects and developing eggs.
Second, items that cannot be laundered require alternative treatment. Place non‑washable garments, hats, scarves, and delicate toys in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. The life cycle of the parasite does not exceed this period, so isolation without contact prevents hatching and re‑infestation. For hard surfaces such as combs, brushes, and hair accessories, soak in a solution of 0.5%–1% permethrin or a 10% shampoo mixture for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and dry.
Third, vacuum all upholstered furniture, carpeted areas, and car seats. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and discard the bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Vacuuming removes loose nits and eggs that may have fallen from hair.
Fourth, clean personal items that come into direct contact with hair. Disinfect hairbrushes, combs, hair clips, and headbands by soaking in boiling water for five minutes or by applying an alcohol‑based spray (minimum 70% ethanol) and allowing it to dry completely.
Finally, after treatment, inspect all items before returning them to regular use. Use a fine‑toothed comb under bright light to verify the absence of live insects and viable eggs. Repeat the cleaning cycle after one week to address any survivors that may have been missed.
By applying high‑temperature laundering, sealed isolation, targeted chemical disinfection, thorough vacuuming, and systematic re‑inspection, the risk of recurrence is minimized and the environment is restored to a lice‑free state.