How to eliminate lice in an apartment yourself? - briefly
Use hot‑water washing, high‑heat drying, and thorough vacuuming to remove lice and eggs, then apply a licensed pediculicide spray to furniture and cracks, following the product’s safety instructions. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to ensure any newly hatched insects are eliminated.
How to eliminate lice in an apartment yourself? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in a dwelling requires a systematic approach that combines personal treatment, environmental cleaning, and preventive measures.
Begin with the affected individuals. Use a pediculicide shampoo or lotion that contains 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, following the product’s instructions precisely. After the recommended exposure time, rinse thoroughly and repeat the application after seven days to catch any newly hatched nits. While the chemical treatment works, a fine‑toothed lice comb must be employed on wet hair. Run the comb from the scalp to the tips, cleaning the teeth after each pass. Perform this combing session at least twice daily for ten consecutive days.
Simultaneously, treat personal items. Place all clothing, bedding, and towels worn or used within the past 48 hours into a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, or wash them in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight bags for the same two‑week period.
Address the living environment. Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation. Soak non‑washable objects such as hairbrushes, combs, and hats in hot water (at least 130 °F) for ten minutes, then dry them on high heat. For surfaces that may harbor lice eggs, apply a spray containing 0.5 % permethrin, ensuring proper ventilation and adhering to safety guidelines.
Implement preventive actions to avoid recurrence. Encourage regular hair checks, especially in school‑aged children, using a fine comb at least once a week. Instruct all household members to avoid sharing personal items such as hats, scarves, hair accessories, and bedding. Maintain a clean environment by laundering garments and linens weekly and vacuuming high‑traffic areas regularly.
By integrating chemical treatment, meticulous combing, thorough laundering, targeted environmental disinfection, and ongoing vigilance, a household can eradicate a lice outbreak without professional assistance.