How to sterilize items from lice?

How to sterilize items from lice? - briefly

Launder fabrics in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes and tumble‑dry on high heat; non‑washable items can be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or treated with a permethrin‑based lice spray.

How to sterilize items from lice? - in detail

To remove lice and their eggs from personal belongings, follow proven procedures that target both the insects and their resilient cysts.

1. Clothing and fabric items

   • Machine‑wash at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 10 minutes.
   • Immediately place the wash load in a dryer on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
   • If the fabric label prohibits hot washing, seal the items in a heavy‑duty plastic bag for 48 hours; the lack of oxygen will kill the parasites.

2. Bedding, towels, and curtains

   • Wash as above, using the hottest temperature allowed by the material.
   • For non‑washable fabrics, wrap tightly in plastic and store for two full days, then vacuum the exterior surface before reuse.

3. Hair accessories, brushes, and combs

   • Submerge metal or plastic items in boiling water for 5 minutes.
   • For delicate pieces, soak in a solution of 1 part household bleach to 9 parts water for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and air‑dry.

4. Soft toys and plush items

   • Place in a sealed bag and freeze at –20 °C (–4 °F) for at least 24 hours.
   • Alternatively, wash in hot water and tumble‑dry on high heat if the toy’s care label permits.

5. Non‑washable objects (e.g., shoes, helmets, backpacks)

   • Apply a lice‑specific insecticide spray that is labeled safe for the material; follow the manufacturer’s contact time.
   • After treatment, expose the items to direct sunlight for several hours, as UV radiation contributes to parasite mortality.

6. Environmental decontamination

   • Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor coverings thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
   • Use a steam cleaner on hard surfaces and upholstery, maintaining steam temperature above 100 °C (212 °F).

Precautions

• Wear disposable gloves when handling contaminated items.
• Keep treated objects away from children and pets until the process is complete.
• Verify that all chemical solutions are compatible with the material to avoid damage.

By applying these methods systematically, all personal items can be rendered free of lice and their eggs, preventing re‑infestation.