How should you treat pillows and blankets for ticks? - briefly
Wash pillows and blankets in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; then keep them in sealed, airtight containers or apply an EPA‑approved acaricide spray before storage if immediate reuse is not possible.
How should you treat pillows and blankets for ticks? - in detail
Treating bedding to eradicate ticks requires a systematic approach that combines heat, moisture control, and regular inspection.
First, launder all pillows and blankets in water that reaches at least 130 °F (54 °C). Use a high‑efficiency detergent and run a full‑cycle wash lasting a minimum of 30 minutes. This temperature kills all life stages of the parasite.
After washing, transfer the items to a dryer set on the highest heat setting. Operate the dryer for at least 20 minutes; the sustained heat eliminates any surviving ticks or eggs. If the dryer lacks a high‑heat option, place the items in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to direct sunlight for several hours, ensuring the ambient temperature exceeds 120 °F (49 °C).
When heat is unavailable, freezing offers an alternative. Seal the bedding in airtight bags and store them in a freezer at –20 °F (‑29 °C) for a minimum of 48 hours. This method destroys ticks by rapid temperature decline.
Chemical treatments may be employed for heavily infested items that cannot be laundered. Apply an EPA‑registered acaricide spray according to the manufacturer’s instructions, covering all surfaces evenly. Allow the product to dry completely before reuse.
Inspect each piece after treatment. Look for live ticks, nymphs, or remnants of egg shells. Use a bright flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to detect hidden specimens. Discard any item that shows persistent infestation.
Store clean bedding in airtight containers or zip‑lock bags to prevent re‑contamination. Keep the storage area dry and free of rodent activity, which can introduce ticks.
Implement preventive measures: keep pillows and blankets off the floor, use tick‑proof mattress and pillow encasements, and schedule weekly laundering during peak tick seasons. Consistent application of these steps maintains a tick‑free sleeping environment.