How to disinfect clothing after lice? - briefly
Wash all washable fabrics in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter for at least ten minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat; for items that cannot be laundered, place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks or expose them to a professional heat‑treatment service. This eliminates any remaining lice or eggs on the clothing.
How to disinfect clothing after lice? - in detail
Disinfecting garments after a lice infestation requires thorough cleaning, high temperatures, and appropriate chemical treatments to eliminate all life stages of the parasite.
First, separate all clothing, bedding, and washable items from non‑washable materials. For washable fabrics, use a washing machine set to the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Add a standard detergent; for extra protection, include a lice‑killing additive such as a 0.5 % permethrin solution or a commercial lice‑specific laundry booster. Run a complete rinse cycle to remove residues.
After washing, dry the items in a dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) is sufficient to kill eggs and nymphs. If a dryer is unavailable, place items in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet radiation and heat will further reduce viability.
For non‑washable items—coats, shoes, hats, and delicate fabrics—seal each piece in a heavy‑duty plastic bag for two weeks. The isolation period prevents any surviving lice from finding a host. Alternatively, apply a spray containing 0.5 % permethrin or 0.05 % malathion, following the product’s safety instructions, and allow the item to air dry completely.
Hard surfaces that have contacted clothing, such as closets, drawers, and washing machine lids, should be wiped with a solution of 1 % bleach (sodium hypochlorite) diluted in water. Allow the surface to remain wet for ten minutes before wiping it dry. Vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
Finally, store cleaned clothing in clean, airtight containers until the risk of re‑infestation has passed. Regularly inspect family members for signs of recurrence and repeat the disinfection process if necessary.