How to disinfect a house from lice? - briefly
Wash all bedding, clothing, and washable fabrics at 130 °F (54 °C) or place them in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks, and apply an EPA‑registered lice‑killing spray to hard surfaces, furniture, and carpet. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and curtains, then empty or disinfect the vacuum to eliminate any remaining nits.
How to disinfect a house from lice? - in detail
A thorough eradication of head‑lice eggs and nymphs from a residence requires systematic treatment of all potential reservoirs. Begin by isolating the affected individuals and removing personal items that cannot be laundered, such as jewelry or hard‑plastic toys, and store them in sealed bags for later decontamination.
Laundering
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the past 48 hours in water exceeding 130 °F (54 °C).
- Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.
- For items that cannot endure high temperatures, place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks; prolonged isolation kills lice at all life stages.
Furniture and upholstery
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered seats thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and crevices.
- Empty the vacuum canister or replace the bag immediately after use, sealing it in a plastic bag before disposal.
- Apply a spray formulated for lice control to cushions, mattresses, and drapes; follow manufacturer instructions regarding contact time and ventilation.
Hard surfaces
- Wipe down bed frames, nightstands, door handles, and light switches with a solution of 0.5 % sodium hypochlorite (diluted bleach) or an EPA‑registered insecticide.
- Allow surfaces to remain wet for the period specified on the product label, then rinse or wipe with clean water.
Personal items
- Disinfect combs, brushes, and hair accessories by soaking in hot water (≥130 °F) for 10 minutes, then drying on a clean towel.
- Store hair‑clipping tools in sealed containers until the household treatment is complete.
Preventive measures
- Keep clothing and bedding in sealed containers for two weeks after cleaning to block any delayed hatching.
- Conduct a second round of vacuuming and surface cleaning one week after the initial treatment to capture any residual nymphs.
By executing each step with precision and adhering to recommended temperatures, contact times, and isolation periods, the environment becomes inhospitable to lice, eliminating the infestation and reducing the risk of re‑infestation.