How to treat a mattress for lice and nits at home? - briefly
Vacuum the mattress thoroughly, steam‑clean it at ≥130 °C for 20 minutes, and place it in a zippered, allergen‑proof cover for at least two weeks while laundering all bedding in hot water. Apply a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth to seams, leave it for 24 hours, then vacuum again to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How to treat a mattress for lice and nits at home? - in detail
Lice and their eggs can survive in a mattress for weeks, so thorough decontamination is essential. Begin by removing all bedding, curtains, and nearby fabrics; launder each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal washed items in plastic bags until the infestation is resolved to prevent re‑contamination.
Next, vacuum the entire mattress surface, seams, and edges with a high‑efficiency nozzle. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the home. Follow vacuuming with a steam treatment: apply a handheld steamer that reaches 212 °F/100 °C, moving slowly to ensure heat penetrates at least one inch into the material. Steam for 10‑15 minutes, covering every area, then allow the mattress to dry completely.
If steam is unavailable, apply an approved lice‑killing aerosol or spray formulated for fabrics. Lightly mist the mattress, focusing on folds and crevices, then seal the bed with a plastic mattress cover for 24 hours. After the exposure period, remove the cover, vacuum again, and repeat the spray if any live insects remain.
For additional protection, spread a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth over the mattress surface. Leave it for 48 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. This abrasive powder dehydrates lice and nits without chemicals.
Finally, monitor the situation for two weeks. Inspect the mattress nightly with a bright light and a fine‑toothed comb; remove any remaining nits manually. Maintain regular vacuuming and wash all bedding weekly until no lice are detected.
Summary of actions
- Wash and heat‑dry all removable fabrics.
- Vacuum mattress completely; dispose of vacuum contents securely.
- Apply high‑temperature steam for at least 10 minutes.
- Use a lice‑specific spray, seal with a plastic cover for 24 hours.
- Optionally coat with diatomaceous earth, wait 48 hours, then vacuum.
- Conduct nightly inspections for 14 days; remove any residual eggs manually.
Following these steps eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of recurrence.