How to combat ticks in pillows? - briefly
Wash pillows and their covers in water above 60 °C, dry them on high heat, and vacuum the mattress regularly; additionally, encase pillows in mite‑impermeable covers and keep indoor humidity below 50 % to prevent re‑infestation.
How to combat ticks in pillows? - in detail
Ticks can invade bedding, especially pillows, where they hide in seams, stuffing, and fabric folds. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines cleaning, treatment, and prevention.
First, remove the pillow from any protective cover. If the pillow is washable, launder it on the hottest cycle the material allows—generally 140 °F (60 °C) or higher—using a detergent that contains enzymes. Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash to increase mortality rates. After washing, dry the pillow in a dryer set to high heat for at least 30 minutes; heat penetrates the interior and kills remaining arthropods and eggs.
For non‑washable pillows, transfer them to a large plastic bag and seal tightly. Place the bag in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of 72 hours. Freezing halts metabolic activity and kills ticks at all life stages. After thawing, vacuum the pillow surface and seams with a brush‑attachment to dislodge any survivors.
Chemical measures complement physical methods. Apply an acaricide spray labeled for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Focus on stitching lines, seams, and the pillow’s interior if accessible. Allow the product to dry completely before re‑covering the pillow.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining a clean sleeping environment:
- Use pillow protectors made of tightly woven fabric; wash them weekly.
- Vacuum the bedroom floor, mattress, and surrounding furniture daily; empty the canister outside.
- Keep pets’ bedding separate and treat pets with veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives.
- Reduce outdoor tick habitats near the home by trimming grass, removing leaf litter, and applying appropriate yard treatments.
Regular inspection helps detect early signs. Examine pillows weekly for tiny, dark specks or live ticks, especially after travel to tick‑endemic areas. Immediate removal and treatment prevent population buildup.
By combining high‑temperature laundering or freezing, targeted acaricide application, and strict hygiene practices, tick presence in pillows can be eliminated and kept at bay.