How to kill bed lice? - briefly
Use high‑heat laundering (≥60 °C) together with an EPA‑registered residual spray designed for bed‑bug control, then vacuum and seal affected items for several weeks. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly emerged insects.
How to kill bed lice? - in detail
Effective eradication of bed‑lice requires a multi‑stage approach that targets insects at all life stages. Begin with thorough inspection of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and surrounding furniture. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to locate adults, nymphs, and eggs. Remove any visible debris with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; dispose of the bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic container outside the home.
Next, apply a heat treatment. Raise ambient temperature in the infested area to at least 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. Portable steam cleaners can penetrate seams and cracks where insects hide. For items that cannot withstand high heat, use a dryer on the hottest setting for 30 minutes or freeze them at –18 °C (0 °F) for 48 hours.
Chemical control complements thermal methods. Choose products specifically labeled for bed‑lice, such as pyrethrin‑based sprays, neonicotinoid aerosols, or silicone‑based insect growth regulators. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring coverage of all crevices, seams, and upholstery. Repeat application after seven days to eliminate newly emerged nymphs that survived the initial dose.
Launder all bedding, clothing, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C / 140 °F) and dry on high heat. Seal items that cannot be laundered in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, depriving insects of oxygen.
Maintain a preventive routine. Inspect sleeping areas weekly, keep clutter to a minimum, and seal cracks in walls or furniture with caulk. Regularly vacuum and steam clean high‑risk zones. Promptly address any re‑infestation by repeating the heat and chemical steps, noting that complete elimination may require several cycles.
By integrating inspection, heat, chemical agents, laundering, and ongoing monitoring, the infestation can be fully resolved.