How to get rid of clothing lice from the house? - briefly
Wash all affected garments in water of at least 60 °C and tumble‑dry on the highest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; then vacuum every closet, drawer and floor, sealing or discarding any untreated items. Apply an approved insecticide spray to cracks, seams and storage boxes to eradicate any remaining «clothing lice» and prevent reinfestation.
How to get rid of clothing lice from the house? - in detail
Clothing lice infestations demand prompt, systematic action. The first stage involves locating all compromised textiles. Examine seams, cuffs, and folds; small, translucent insects or their eggs often appear near buttonholes or zippers. Separate any suspect items from the rest of the wardrobe to prevent spread.
The next stage focuses on treatment of the infested garments.
- Wash at a temperature of at least 60 °C for 30 minutes; heat destroys both adult insects and eggs.
- If the fabric cannot tolerate high temperatures, place the item in a sealed plastic bag and freeze at −20 °C for 72 hours; prolonged cold exposure is lethal to lice.
- For delicate items, apply a professional dry‑cleaning service that includes a high‑temperature cycle.
Environmental decontamination follows. Vacuum all carpets, floorboards, and upholstered furniture, paying special attention to cracks and crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container. Steam‑cleaning of hard surfaces and upholstery provides additional mortality, as steam penetrates hidden niches. In cases of severe infestation, apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use against lice, following manufacturer instructions and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Prevention relies on routine maintenance. Store clean clothing in airtight containers or garment bags; include silica gel packets to reduce humidity, which discourages egg development. Rotate seasonal wardrobes, washing or steaming items before long‑term storage. Implement regular inspections, using a magnifying glass to detect early signs of re‑infestation.
By adhering to these procedures—detection, targeted treatment, environmental sanitation, and preventive storage—clothing lice can be eliminated from the residence and future outbreaks avoided.