How to carry out cleaning for lice? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo or lotion, then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks, discarding each pass’s debris; wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum upholstery to prevent re‑infestation.
How to carry out cleaning for lice? - in detail
Effective lice eradication requires simultaneous treatment of the host and thorough sanitation of the surrounding environment.
The affected individual should undergo a complete examination of the scalp and hair. Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities, following the product’s dosage instructions precisely. After the recommended exposure period, rinse thoroughly and repeat the application after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched nymphs. Use a fine-toothed nit comb on damp hair, moving from scalp outward in systematic passes; repeat combing every two to three days for at least two weeks to remove residual eggs and live insects.
All fabrics that have contacted the host must be processed at high temperature. Wash clothing, bed linens, towels, and hats in water of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of ten minutes. If machine washing is unavailable, seal items in a plastic bag for two weeks, a duration sufficient to kill lice and nits. Dry washed items on the hottest dryer setting for at least 20 minutes.
Non‑fabric surfaces require mechanical removal and disinfection. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats repeatedly, disposing of vacuum bags or cleaning the canister immediately. Wipe hard surfaces—headrests, armrests, door handles, toys—with an alcohol‑based solution (minimum 70 % ethanol) or a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Discard hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories; soak them in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for ten minutes, then dry.
Prevent recurrence by enforcing strict personal hygiene practices. Prohibit sharing of hats, scarves, hair accessories, and bedding. Conduct weekly scalp inspections for all household members, especially children, using a magnifying lens and a fine comb. Maintain a clean environment by laundering personal items after every use and by keeping living spaces free of clutter that can harbor insects.
Following this systematic protocol eliminates active infestations, reduces the risk of reintroduction, and restores a lice‑free household.