How to disinfect soft toys from lice? - briefly
Wash the toy in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes, then tumble‑dry on the highest setting or steam‑clean it. If laundering isn’t feasible, place the item in an airtight bag for 48 hours to eliminate the lice.
How to disinfect soft toys from lice? - in detail
Lice infestations on plush items require immediate, thorough decontamination to prevent reinfestation of humans and pets. Begin by separating the affected toys from other household objects and placing them in a sealed plastic bag to contain any loose nits.
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Physical removal – Use a fine-toothed comb or a disposable lice pick to extract visible lice and eggs from the fabric surface. Perform the task over a white sheet to collect debris for disposal in a sealed trash bag.
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Washing – Transfer the toys to a washing machine. Select a hot water cycle of at least 60 °C (140 °F) and add a regular laundry detergent. For items that can tolerate bleach, add ½ cup of non‑chlorine bleach to enhance lethality. Run an extra rinse to eliminate detergent residues.
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Heat treatment – If the manufacturer’s label permits, place the toys in a dryer on high heat for 30 minutes. Heat above 55 °C (130 °F) kills both adult lice and eggs. For delicate plush items that cannot be machine‑dried, use a household steam cleaner or a portable garment steamer, directing steam evenly across all surfaces for at least 5 minutes.
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Chemical disinfection – When washing or steaming is unsuitable, apply a lice‑specific spray containing 0.5 % permethrin or a 1 % pyrethrin solution. Ensure the product is labeled safe for fabric and follow the manufacturer’s contact time, typically 10 minutes, before wiping with a clean damp cloth. Allow the toy to air dry completely.
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Inspection after treatment – Examine the toy under bright light to confirm the absence of live insects or nits. Repeat the washing or steaming step if any remnants are detected.
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Preventive measures – Store cleaned toys in airtight containers. Regularly vacuum areas where plush toys are kept, and treat the surrounding environment with a lice‑appropriate insecticide if a broader infestation persists.
By following these sequential actions—removal, hot‑water laundering, heat exposure, optional chemical application, and post‑treatment verification—soft toys become fully decontaminated, eliminating the risk of lice transmission.