How to disinfect a home from lice? - briefly
Wash all clothing, bedding, and washable fabrics in water at 55 °C (130 °F) or higher and dry on the hottest setting; vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly, then apply a 0.5 % permethrin or a 1 % diluted bleach solution to all non‑washable surfaces, allowing it to air‑dry. Repeat the cleaning and treatment after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How to disinfect a home from lice? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations from a dwelling requires a systematic approach that targets both live insects and their eggs. Begin by isolating the affected individuals to prevent further spread. Personal items such as hats, scarves, and hair accessories should be placed in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours, a period that exceeds the lice life cycle and ensures mortality.
All bedding, including pillowcases, sheets, and mattress protectors, must be washed in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) and dried on high heat for at least 30 minutes. If laundering at the required temperature is impossible, seal the items in airtight containers for two weeks to deprive lice of a viable environment.
Fabric that cannot be laundered—curtains, upholstery, and stuffed toys—should be vacuumed thoroughly. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and dispose of the bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Follow vacuuming with a steam treatment; steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for a minimum of five minutes penetrates fibers and kills both insects and eggs without chemical residues.
Hard surfaces demand a disinfectant proven effective against arthropods. Apply a solution containing 0.5 % permethrin or a comparable pyrethroid, following manufacturer instructions for contact time. Pay special attention to high‑traffic areas, hair‑cutting stations, and places where personal items are stored. After application, wipe surfaces with a clean cloth and allow them to dry completely.
Carpets and rugs benefit from a combination of vacuuming and steam cleaning. If steam equipment is unavailable, sprinkle a fine layer of diatomaceous earth, leave it for several hours, then vacuum. The abrasive particles damage the exoskeleton of lice and their eggs.
For non‑removable items such as mattresses, encase them in zippered, insect‑proof covers rated for at least six months. Ensure the seal is tight; any breach can reintroduce pests.
Finally, implement preventive measures: educate household members on avoiding head‑to‑head contact, discourage sharing of personal hair items, and conduct weekly inspections of hair and scalp. Consistent adherence to these protocols eliminates the current infestation and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.