How to treat an apartment for head lice? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then discard or launder all bedding, clothing, and towels at 130 °F (54 °C); treat surfaces with a lice‑specific insecticide spray according to label directions. Seal infested items in sealed bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat an apartment for head lice? - in detail
Treat the living space thoroughly after a head‑lice infestation. Begin with textiles that have direct contact with the scalp. Wash all bedding, pillowcases, towels, and clothing in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes, then dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the period needed for lice and nits to die without a host.
Next, address upholstered furniture and carpets. Vacuum all surfaces, paying special attention to seams, cushions, and crevices where nits may hide. After vacuuming, discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water. For non‑vacuum‑cleanable fabrics, apply a steam cleaner; the temperature of the steam must reach at least 212 °F (100 °C) to ensure lethality.
Hard surfaces require disinfection. Wipe countertops, tables, nightstands, and door handles with a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite (household bleach diluted appropriately) or an EPA‑registered lice‑kill product. Allow the solution to remain on the surface for the contact time specified by the manufacturer, typically 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Personal items such as hairbrushes, combs, and hats should be immersed in hot water (130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes, or soaked in a solution of 0.5 % permethrin for 10 minutes, followed by rinsing. Replace any items that cannot be decontaminated.
Finally, maintain a preventive environment. Keep the temperature in the home above 80 °F (27 °C) for 24 hours, as heat accelerates nits mortality. Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places. Repeat vacuuming and surface cleaning after one week to capture any newly hatched lice that may have survived the initial treatment.