How to get lice off a bed? - briefly
Strip the mattress and wash all linens in water hotter than 130 °F, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum the mattress, headboard, and surrounding floor, and use a steam cleaner if available.
How to get lice off a bed? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations from sleeping surfaces requires a systematic approach that combines physical removal, thermal treatment, and chemical control. Begin by stripping the bed of all linens, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to prevent lice from escaping during the cleaning process.
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Launder textiles – Wash at the highest temperature the fabric can safely tolerate (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C). Use a full‑cycle wash followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle lasting at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be machine‑washed, seal in a bag and expose to direct sunlight for 48 hours, or store in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 72 hours.
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Treat the mattress – Vacuum the entire surface with a HEPA‑rated vacuum, paying special attention to seams, folds, and tufts. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to avoid re‑contamination. Apply a lice‑specific spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin according to the product label, ensuring even coverage. Allow the product to remain on the mattress for the recommended contact time (usually 10–15 minutes) before wiping with a clean, damp cloth.
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Sanitize the bed frame – Wipe all wooden or metal components with an alcohol‑based solution (minimum 70 % isopropyl alcohol). For upholstered headboards, spot‑treat with a steam cleaner set to at least 212 °F (100 °C) to penetrate fabric fibers.
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Control the environment – Reduce clutter around the bed that could harbor lice eggs. Keep the room temperature low and humidity below 50 % to discourage survival. Seal any cracks or crevices in the floor or walls where insects might hide.
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Monitor and repeat – After the initial treatment, inspect the bedding daily for signs of live lice or nits. Perform a second round of vacuuming and chemical application 7 days after the first treatment to target newly hatched insects that survived the initial cycle.
By following these steps, the infestation can be eradicated from the sleeping area without resorting to unnecessary replacements of furniture or extensive chemical exposure.