How to treat an apartment for scabies mites? - briefly
Launder all bedding, clothing, and curtains at ≥ 60 °C, vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, apply an approved scabicide spray to all surfaces, and seal the apartment for 48 hours before re‑occupancy.
How to treat an apartment for scabies mites? - in detail
Treating a residence infested with scabies mites requires systematic eradication of the parasites and their eggs, followed by preventive measures to avoid re‑infestation.
All bedding, clothing, and towels must be laundered at a minimum temperature of 60 °C for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for a period of seven days, during which the mites cannot survive.
Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture should be vacuumed thoroughly, using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. After vacuuming, the device’s bag or canister must be emptied into a sealed bag and discarded outdoors.
Hard surfaces – floors, countertops, bathroom fixtures – should be cleaned with a detergent solution, then disinfected with a product containing 0.1 % permethrin or 5 % benzyl benzoate, applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Contact time of at least ten minutes is required for efficacy.
Heat treatment can be employed for items that tolerate high temperatures. Portable steam cleaners set to 100 °C can be passed over mattresses, sofas, and curtains, ensuring that the steam penetrates all layers.
If chemical treatment is necessary, apply a residual acaricide spray labeled for scabies control to cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture. Follow safety precautions: ventilate the area, wear protective gloves, and keep occupants and pets out of the treated space for the recommended duration.
Professional pest‑control services may be engaged for large‑scale infestations. Technicians will assess the environment, apply licensed acaricides, and provide a detailed de‑contamination plan.
After completion of all steps, maintain a cleaning schedule: weekly vacuuming, regular laundering of linens, and periodic inspection of high‑risk areas. This regimen minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.