How to poison clothing lice? - briefly
Apply a permethrin‑based spray or pyrethrin solution directly to the infested garments, adhering to the label’s concentration and exposure guidelines. Seal the treated clothing in a sealed plastic bag for at least 24 hours to complete eradication.
How to poison clothing lice? - in detail
Eliminating clothing‑borne lice requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, proper handling of infested garments, and environmental safety measures.
First, select an appropriate insecticide. Effective compounds include permethrin (0.5‑1% concentration), pyrethrin‑based sprays, or carbaryl dust. For severe infestations, a combination of a contact spray and a residual powder can increase efficacy. Verify that the product is labeled for use on textiles and follow the manufacturer’s concentration guidelines.
Second, prepare the clothing. Separate infested items from clean laundry. Place garments in a sealed plastic bag for at least 30 minutes to contain any escaping insects. If the fabric allows, apply the chosen spray evenly, ensuring coverage of seams, folds, and interior surfaces. For powders, dust the interior of pockets, cuffs, and hems, then gently shake the clothing to distribute the material.
Third, allow the chemical to act. Maintain the treated garments in a sealed environment for the period specified on the product label—typically 24 hours for sprays and 48 hours for powders. During this time, keep the area well‑ventilated and avoid direct skin contact.
Fourth, decontaminate the items. After the exposure interval, launder the clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C) with a detergent that contains a surfactant. Add a small amount of bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite) for white fabrics, or a color‑safe bleach for colored items. Rinse thoroughly and dry on high heat, as temperatures above 55 °C are lethal to any remaining insects.
Fifth, treat the surrounding environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and storage areas where the infested garments were kept. Dispose of vacuum bags or empty canisters in sealed trash bags. Apply a residual insecticide spray to baseboards, closets, and drawers if the infestation was extensive.
Safety considerations:
- Wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection when handling chemicals.
- Store insecticides out of reach of children and pets.
- Test a small, inconspicuous area of each fabric for colorfastness before full application.
- Follow local regulations for disposal of pesticide‑containing waste.
By adhering to these steps, clothing lice can be effectively neutralized while minimizing risk to humans and the environment.