How to treat a room after lice infestation? - briefly
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor crevices thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water. Wash all bedding, clothing, and removable fabrics in water at least 130 °F and dry on high heat, and apply a lice‑approved insecticide spray to non‑washable surfaces according to label directions.
How to treat a room after lice infestation? - in detail
After a lice outbreak, every surface that may have contacted an infested person must be rendered inhospitable to the parasites. The process begins with removal of all fabric items that can be laundered. Wash bedding, curtains, clothing, and removable upholstery in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the period required for lice and nits to die without a host.
Next, treat non‑launderable surfaces. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water. For hard floors, mop with a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water, or use a commercial disinfectant labeled effective against arthropods. Allow the floor to remain wet for at least 10 minutes before drying.
Dust‑sensitive areas such as bookshelves, picture frames, and electronics require a dry‑cloth wipe‑down. Use a lint‑free microfiber cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70 % concentration) to reduce the risk of nits adhering to surfaces. Avoid excessive moisture on electronic devices.
Finally, implement environmental controls to prevent re‑infestation. Maintain indoor temperature at or above 85 °F / 29 °C for 24 hours, a condition lethal to lice. Ensure regular cleaning cycles: vacuum weekly, wash bedding weekly, and inspect personal items for signs of lice. Replace or treat pet bedding separately, as animal hair does not harbor human lice but may serve as a secondary reservoir for debris.
By following these steps—laundering, sealing, vacuuming, disinfecting, and environmental management—the room becomes safe for re‑occupation without the need for chemical insecticides.