How to disinfect a room from lice? - briefly
Eliminate all infested fabrics by washing at ≥130 °F or sealing them in airtight bags for two weeks, then vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly before treating all surfaces with a contact insecticide such as 1 % permethrin spray. After the treatment, keep the room closed for 24 hours, then repeat vacuuming and laundering to remove any remaining nits.
How to disinfect a room from lice? - in detail
Cleaning a space infested with lice requires a systematic approach that eliminates both live insects and their eggs from all surfaces. Begin by removing all fabrics that can be laundered. Wash bedding, curtains, clothing, and removable upholstery covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be washed, place them in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
Next, treat hard surfaces. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, paying special attention to seams, crevices, and edges. Empty the vacuum canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors. After vacuuming, apply an EPA‑approved insecticide spray or a steam cleaner that reaches temperatures of 130 °F/54 °C or higher. Ensure the product label confirms effectiveness against Pediculus humanus capitis. Follow manufacturer instructions for contact time and ventilation.
For non‑removable items such as mattresses, use a lice‑specific spray or a high‑temperature steam treatment. Apply the spray evenly, allowing the recommended dwell period before wiping excess residue. Steam the mattress surface for at least five minutes, moving the nozzle slowly to cover the entire area.
Seal the entire room after treatment. Close windows and doors, turn off HVAC systems, and place a clean, damp cloth over vents to prevent airflow that could spread eggs. Maintain this sealed state for 24 hours, then ventilate the space by opening windows and running a fan to circulate fresh air.
Finally, implement preventative measures. Keep personal items separate, avoid sharing hats, combs, or towels, and conduct weekly inspections of occupants for signs of infestation. Repeat the cleaning cycle after two weeks to address any newly hatched nits that may have survived the initial process.