How to treat beds for lice and nits? - briefly
Strip the bed, wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets in hot water (≥130 °F) or place them in sealed bags for two weeks, then dry on high heat; vacuum the mattress, box spring, headboard, and surrounding furniture, discarding the vacuum bag afterward. Apply an EPA‑registered lice spray to seams, cracks, and any remaining fabric, and leave it undisturbed for the manufacturer‑specified contact time.
How to treat beds for lice and nits? - in detail
Treating infested bedding requires a systematic approach that eliminates live insects, kills eggs, and prevents re‑infestation. Begin by removing all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and removable mattress covers. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to contain any surviving lice.
Wash the textiles in hot water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. Use a high‑efficiency detergent and avoid mixing with uninfested laundry. After washing, tumble‑dry on the hottest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat of this duration kills both lice and nits. Items that cannot be laundered—such as comforters, heavy quilts, or decorative pillows—should be sealed in airtight bags for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse, to ensure that any remaining insects die without a host.
Vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding area thoroughly. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; focus on seams, folds, and crevices where eggs may be concealed. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a mattress encasement specifically designed to block insects. The cover must be zippered, made of tightly woven fabric, and remain in place for at least four weeks. This barrier prevents surviving nits from hatching and protects the mattress during future infestations.
If chemical intervention is necessary, select a product approved for use on fabrics and bedding. Follow label instructions precisely: apply only the recommended amount, avoid over‑saturation, and allow the material to dry completely before reuse. Consider non‑chemical alternatives such as steam cleaning; steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for several minutes penetrates fabric layers and eradicates both stages of the parasite.
Finally, maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Wash all bedding weekly in hot water, vacuum the sleeping area daily, and inspect for signs of recurrence. Replace worn mattress covers and pillow protectors promptly, as damaged seams can harbor eggs.
By adhering to these steps—hot laundering, thorough drying, sealed storage, targeted vacuuming, protective encasements, and controlled use of approved treatments—infestation of sleeping surfaces can be eliminated and future outbreaks prevented.