How to treat a hat for lice? - briefly
Remove the hat, place it in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, then either wash it at 60 °C or treat it with an approved lice‑killing spray according to the product directions.
How to treat a hat for lice? - in detail
Lice on a cap or other headgear require immediate action to prevent reinfestation of the wearer and nearby persons. Begin by isolating the item; place it in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours to kill any live insects that cannot survive without a host. After isolation, inspect the fabric under bright light, using a fine-toothed comb to remove visible nits and adult lice.
If the material tolerates heat, wash the hat in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for ten minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. For delicate or non‑washable pieces, apply a lice‑killing spray formulated for fabrics, following the manufacturer’s instructions regarding concentration and exposure time. Ensure the spray covers all seams, folds, and interior linings; repeat the application after 24 hours to address any eggs that may have hatched.
After treatment, store the cleaned item in a clean, airtight container for a further 24 hours before reuse. For future prevention, keep headgear separate from personal items, and regularly inspect for signs of infestation after contact with known cases.
Step‑by‑step protocol
- Seal the headwear in a zip‑lock bag for 48 hours.
- Examine under bright light; manually remove all visible stages with a comb.
- If washable:
- If non‑washable:
- Place in airtight container for an additional 24 hours.
- Return to regular use only after confirming no remaining insects.
Following this regimen eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of recurrence.