How to treat beds for lice? - briefly
Strip and launder all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat; simultaneously vacuum mattresses, upholstered furniture, and floor surfaces, then apply a steam cleaner or an approved insecticide spray to remaining fabrics and crevices. Isolate untreated items for at least two weeks while monitoring for re‑infestation.
How to treat beds for lice? - in detail
Treating a sleeping surface infested with lice requires a systematic approach that eliminates live insects, removes eggs, and prevents re‑infestation. Begin by removing all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Wash each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. Heat kills both lice and nits that may survive washing.
If any fabric cannot be laundered, seal it in a plastic bag for two weeks. Lice cannot survive without a blood meal for more than 48 hours, and eggs hatch within 7–10 days; the sealed environment deprives them of both food and oxygen.
Next, address the mattress and box spring. Vacuum the entire surface, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to avoid spreading insects. After vacuuming, apply a lice‑specific spray or powder approved for furniture. Follow the product’s instructions regarding contact time, typically 10–15 minutes, then wipe or brush away residues.
For upholstered headboards, pillows, and nearby furniture, repeat the vacuum‑and‑treatment cycle. Use a lint roller or adhesive tape to lift any remaining nits from fabric surfaces.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Encase the mattress and box spring in a zippered, lice‑proof cover that remains sealed for at least three months. Wash all future bedding weekly in hot water. Reduce clutter around the bed to limit hiding places. Encourage regular inspection of hair and scalp to catch any new infestations early.
By following these steps—heat laundering, sealed storage, thorough vacuuming, targeted chemical treatment, and ongoing prevention—the sleeping environment can be rendered free of lice and their eggs.