How to remove clothing lice from clothing? - briefly
Wash the infested garments in water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) with detergent, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes, or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to eliminate the parasites.
How to remove clothing lice from clothing? - in detail
Lice that have settled on fabric can survive for several days, making thorough decontamination essential. The most reliable method combines high temperature, chemical treatment, and proper handling of all potentially contaminated items.
First, isolate affected garments. Place them in sealed plastic bags to prevent spreading until treatment begins. Wash each piece in the hottest water the fabric can tolerate, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Use a regular laundry detergent; the detergent’s surfactants help detach eggs and nymphs from fibers.
After the wash cycle, run a high‑heat dryer for at least 30 minutes. Dryer temperatures above 130 °F are sufficient to kill all life stages of the parasite. For items that cannot be machine‑dried, lay them flat in direct sunlight for a minimum of six hours, ensuring the surface temperature reaches at least 115 °F.
If washing and drying are impractical, apply a lice‑specific insecticide approved for fabrics. Follow the product label precisely: spray evenly, allow the recommended contact time, and then launder or air‑dry the clothing as instructed. Avoid using household pesticides not labeled for textiles, as they may damage fibers or pose health risks.
Seal any clothing that cannot be treated immediately in airtight containers. Store them for a minimum of two weeks, the typical lifespan of a lice nymph without a host, to ensure any surviving insects perish.
Finally, clean the washing machine and dryer interiors. Run an empty hot‑water cycle with a cup of bleach or a commercial disinfectant. Wipe drum surfaces and lint traps with a disinfecting wipe to remove any residual eggs.
By adhering to these steps—high‑temperature laundering, appropriate drying, targeted insecticide use when needed, and thorough equipment sanitation—clothing can be rendered completely free of lice and their eggs.