How to remove lice from items? - briefly
Wash clothing, bedding, and other washable items in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. For non‑washable objects, place them in an airtight bag for two weeks or apply a lice‑killing spray that is safe for the material.
How to remove lice from items? - in detail
Removing lice from personal belongings requires a systematic approach that targets all possible habitats.
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Clothing, sheets, and towels – Place items in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours to ensure any nymphs die. Afterward, wash at 130 °F (54 °C) or higher; if the fabric cannot withstand heat, dry‑clean or freeze at –4 °F (‑20 °C) for at least 24 hours.
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Hair accessories and combs – Soak in hot water (≥130 °F) with a tablespoon of regular shampoo for 10 minutes. Rinse, then dry with a hair dryer on high heat or place in a sealed bag for two days.
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Soft toys and stuffed animals – Enclose in a zip‑lock bag and freeze for a minimum of 24 hours. If washing is feasible, use the hottest cycle the material tolerates, followed by a high‑heat dryer setting.
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Backpacks, purses, and other fabric containers – Empty contents, vacuum interior surfaces, then wash removable liners. For non‑removable parts, expose to sunlight for several hours or place in a sealed bag for 48 hours.
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Hard surfaces (e.g., chairs, car seats) – Vacuum thoroughly, then wipe with a solution of 1 part isopropyl alcohol to 9 parts water. Allow to air‑dry completely.
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Personal items that cannot be heated – Apply a lice‑specific spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin, following label instructions, and store in a sealed container for 24 hours before use.
Precautions
- Verify temperature settings before washing to avoid fabric damage.
- Use airtight containers to prevent re‑infestation during the treatment period.
- Dispose of vacuum bags or empty canisters immediately after use.
By applying heat, cold, chemical treatment, or isolation consistently across all affected items, the infestation can be eradicated without reliance on repeated manual removal.