How to rinse combs after lice? - briefly
Soak the comb in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for about 10 minutes, scrub with dish soap, and rinse completely. Dry it with a clean towel or allow it to air‑dry before using it again.
How to rinse combs after lice? - in detail
Cleaning a lice comb after use requires thorough removal of eggs, nits, and any residual debris to prevent reinfestation. Follow these steps precisely.
First, detach the comb from any holder and shake off loose particles over a sink. Rinse under running water at the highest temperature the material can tolerate; metal combs typically withstand boiling water, while plastic ones should not exceed 140 °F (60 °C).
Next, immerse the comb in a solution of hot water and antibacterial soap for at least five minutes. Agitate gently to release trapped material. For added disinfection, add a tablespoon of household bleach (5 % solution) per liter of water or use a commercial lice‑comb sanitizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After soaking, scrub the teeth with a small brush (e.g., a toothbrush) to clear any remaining nits. Rinse thoroughly under hot running water until no soap or bleach residue remains. Inspect the comb visually; repeat the scrubbing step if any debris is visible.
Finally, dry the comb completely. Place it on a clean towel or use a low‑heat dryer for a few minutes. Store the cleaned comb in a sealed plastic bag or a dedicated container until the next use.
Summary of actions
- Shake off loose material.
- Rinse with the hottest safe water.
- Soak in hot, soapy water (add bleach or sanitizer if desired).
- Scrub teeth with a brush.
- Rinse until clear.
- Dry fully before storage.
Adhering to this protocol eliminates viable lice and prevents cross‑contamination.