How to get rid of scabies mites at home? - briefly
Apply a 5 % «permethrin» cream to the entire body, then wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in water at least 60 °C and dry on high heat. Isolate any untreated items in a sealed bag for a minimum of 72 hours to allow remaining mites to perish.
How to get rid of scabies mites at home? - in detail
Effective elimination of scabies mites within a household requires a coordinated approach that addresses both the infected individuals and the surrounding environment. The following steps outline a comprehensive protocol.
First, initiate pharmacologic treatment for all persons showing symptoms. Prescription‑only topical scabicides, such as 5 % permethrin cream, must be applied to the entire body from the neck down, left on for the recommended duration (typically 8–14 hours), and then washed off. Oral ivermectin, when indicated, should follow the dosing schedule provided by a healthcare professional. Treatment of close contacts, regardless of symptom presence, prevents reinfestation.
Second, decontaminate clothing, bedding, and towels. Items worn or used within the previous 72 hours should be laundered in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and tumble‑dried on the highest heat setting. For fabrics that cannot tolerate heat, seal them in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours; the mites cannot survive beyond three days without a host.
Third, clean the living environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattress surfaces thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Apply a non‑toxic acaricide spray to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, following manufacturer instructions. For hard flooring, mop with hot water and a disinfectant approved for household use.
Fourth, maintain personal hygiene during the treatment period. Bathe daily with a gentle soap, keeping nails trimmed to reduce the risk of scratching and secondary infection. Avoid sharing personal items such as clothing, towels, or bedding until the decontamination process is complete.
Finally, monitor progress. Re‑examine the skin after one week; persistent burrows or new lesions may indicate treatment failure and require medical reassessment. A second round of topical scabicide, typically after seven days, is often recommended to eradicate any surviving mites.
Adhering to this systematic regimen maximizes the likelihood of complete eradication without professional pest‑control services. « Effective control hinges on simultaneous treatment of hosts and thorough environmental sanitation ».