How to treat a bed after lice infestation? - briefly
Strip the bed and wash all linens in water ≥ 60 °C (140 °F), then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum the mattress, headboard, and nearby furniture, and treat the surfaces with a lice‑approved spray or powder, repeating the application after seven days.
How to treat a bed after lice infestation? - in detail
After a lice outbreak, the sleeping surface must be cleared of viable insects and their eggs. Begin by removing all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Wash each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least ten minutes, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes or longer. Heat destroys both adult lice and nits that may survive washing.
If any fabric cannot be laundered, place it in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. The isolation period prevents hatching, as lice eggs require contact with a host within that timeframe.
For the mattress itself, follow these steps:
- Vacuum the entire surface, seams, and edges with a nozzle attachment. Empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed bag and discard it immediately.
- Apply a steam cleaner set to a temperature of at least 212 °F (100 °C). Move the nozzle slowly to ensure the steam penetrates the fabric and internal layers. Steam kills insects and eggs without damaging most mattress materials.
- Sprinkle a fine layer of diatomaceous earth over the mattress, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum again. The abrasive particles desiccate any remaining nymphs.
- Cover the treated mattress with a zippered, encasement designed to block insects. Keep the encasement on for at least 48 hours before removing it.
Inspect the headboard, footboard, and surrounding furniture. Wipe hard surfaces with a disinfectant containing at least 70 % alcohol, then allow them to dry completely. For upholstered chairs or sofas, repeat the steam‑cleaning procedure or use a commercial lice‑specific spray following the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
Finally, maintain a preventive routine: wash new bedding before first use, keep the bedroom temperature low (below 68 °F/20 °C) to discourage lice activity, and conduct weekly visual checks of the sleeping area for several weeks after treatment.