How to treat clothing for ticks? - briefly
Wash garments in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter for at least 10 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes to kill any attached ticks. For items that cannot be laundered, treat them with a permethrin spray following the product directions and let them dry completely before wearing.
How to treat clothing for ticks? - in detail
Treating garments to eliminate ticks requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical, thermal, and chemical methods. The following procedures ensure maximum removal of attached and hidden parasites.
First, separate clothing from other laundry. Use hot water—at least 130 °F (54 °C)—for the wash cycle. High temperatures kill ticks at all life stages, including eggs. Add a standard laundry detergent; the surfactant helps detach insects from fabric fibers.
Second, after washing, place the items in a dryer set to high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. The dryer’s airflow and temperature further reduce the risk of surviving ticks. For fabrics that cannot withstand high heat, consider an alternative: line‑dry in direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet radiation is lethal to many arthropods.
Third, apply a residual insecticide when heat treatment is unsuitable. Permethrin‑treated clothing, approved for outdoor use, provides lasting protection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: spray evenly, allow the garment to dry completely, and re‑treat after a set number of washes (typically every 5–10 cycles). Avoid using products not labeled for textiles, as they may damage fibers or pose health hazards.
Fourth, conduct a visual inspection after each treatment. Examine seams, cuffs, and pockets where ticks often hide. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a lint roller to lift any remaining specimens. Discard any damaged clothing that cannot be fully decontaminated.
Fifth, store clean, treated garments in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers. This prevents re‑infestation from environmental sources. Include a desiccant packet to reduce humidity, which can encourage tick survival.
Summary of steps:
- Wash in hot water (≥130 °F) with detergent.
- Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes, or sun‑dry if heat‑sensitive.
- Apply permethrin spray according to label directions; re‑treat after several washes.
- Perform a thorough visual check; use a comb or lint roller for hidden areas.
- Store in sealed, moisture‑controlled containers.
By adhering to these actions, clothing becomes effectively free of ticks, reducing the likelihood of subsequent bites and disease transmission.