How to quickly eliminate clothing lice? - briefly
Use a high‑heat dryer cycle (≥130 °F) for at least 30 minutes, then place the garments in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours to ensure all lice are dead. If heat is unavailable, apply a fabric‑safe insecticide spray according to the product label.
How to quickly eliminate clothing lice? - in detail
Clothing lice, also known as body lice, thrive in garments that are not regularly cleaned or dried. Immediate eradication requires a combination of heat, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
- Wash all infested items in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. The temperature kills both adult lice and eggs.
- Follow washing with a high‑heat dryer cycle lasting a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) ensures complete mortality of any survivors.
- For items that cannot be machine‑washed, place them in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to a portable heater or direct sunlight for several hours, maintaining temperatures above 120 °F.
- Apply an insecticidal spray containing permethrin (0.5 % concentration) or pyrethrin to fabrics that cannot be laundered. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding contact time and ventilation.
- Vacuum upholstered surfaces, luggage, and closets thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately after use.
- Replace or launder bedding, towels, and personal clothing daily until the infestation is confirmed resolved.
- Implement a routine of washing clothes after each use and drying them on high heat to prevent recurrence.
Prompt execution of these steps eliminates the current infestation and reduces the risk of re‑infestation. Continuous adherence to hygiene protocols—regular laundering at high temperatures and immediate treatment of any new garments—maintains a lice‑free environment.