How to disinfect bedding from lice? - briefly
Wash all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and removable covers in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes. For non‑launderable items, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks or apply a lice‑approved spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin.
How to disinfect bedding from lice? - in detail
Disinfecting linens infested with head‑lice requires a combination of heat, chemical treatment, and thorough cleaning of the surrounding environment.
First, separate all washable fabrics—sheets, pillowcases, blankets, mattress covers, and clothing. Place each item in hot water at a temperature of at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes. Use a regular laundry detergent; adding a small amount of an insecticidal laundry additive (e.g., permethrin‑based product approved for fabrics) enhances efficacy. After washing, tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 20 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) kills both adult lice and nymphs, as well as their eggs.
For non‑washable items such as comforters, pillows, or upholstered furniture, apply one of the following methods:
- Steam treatment: Direct steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for at least 5 minutes, ensuring the steam penetrates seams and crevices.
- Sealed‑bag approach: Place the item in a heavy‑duty plastic bag, seal tightly, and leave for 72 hours. Lice cannot survive without a blood meal for more than 48 hours, and the sealed environment prevents re‑infestation.
- Chemical spray: Use a lice‑specific aerosol labeled for use on fabrics; follow manufacturer instructions regarding exposure time and ventilation.
After treating the bedding, address the mattress and box spring. Vacuum the entire surface with a HEPA‑filtered vacuum, focusing on seams, tufts, and folds. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard. Apply a residual insecticide spray approved for use on mattresses, covering all sides and allowing the product to dry completely before re‑covering.
Finally, replace all pillow and mattress protectors with new, tightly woven (thread count ≥ 600) covers that are labeled “mite‑proof” or “lice‑proof.” These barriers prevent any surviving organisms from reaching the sleeping surface.
Maintain a routine of weekly laundering at high temperatures and regular vacuuming for at least four weeks to ensure the life cycle of any remaining lice is interrupted. Monitoring with a fine‑toothed comb can verify the success of the decontamination process.