How to treat a bed after lice? - briefly
Remove all bedding and wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets and any washable items in water at ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat; vacuum the mattress, box spring and headboard thoroughly, apply a lice‑killing spray or steam treatment to the mattress surface, and replace the cleaned linens under a sealed encasement.
How to treat a bed after lice? - in detail
Treating a mattress and surrounding bedding after a lice infestation requires thorough cleaning, heat treatment, and isolation of items that cannot be processed.
First, remove all linens, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers. Place them in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours; lice cannot survive without a host for more than two days. After the waiting period, wash the fabrics in the hottest cycle the material tolerates (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Next, address the mattress itself. Vacuum the entire surface, including seams and crevices, using a hose attachment to capture any nits or adult insects. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and dispose of it.
Apply heat to the mattress:
- Use a portable steam cleaner set to at least 212 °F (100 °C); steam each area for 10–15 seconds, ensuring the steam penetrates seams and folds.
- Alternatively, cover the mattress with a heavy-duty plastic sheet, seal the edges, and leave it under direct sunlight for 6–8 hours, as solar radiation can reach lethal temperatures for lice.
For items that cannot be laundered or heated, such as foam pillows or certain mattress toppers, seal them in airtight bags for two weeks. The extended isolation guarantees that any remaining lice perish.
Finally, disinfect the bedroom. Wipe hard surfaces, nightstands, and headboards with a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite (bleach) or an EPA‑registered insecticide specifically labeled for lice. Allow the solution to remain wet for the recommended contact time before wiping clean.
Repeat the vacuum‑and‑steam cycle after one week to catch any newly hatched nits that may have survived the initial treatment. Maintain a strict no‑contact policy with untreated clothing or personal items until the environment is confirmed lice‑free.